“Maturity is shown through discourse, party rivalry need not breed hostility. Politics is contest, not conflict… Dialogue resolves all.”
President Hichilema’s Homage: A Plea for Harmony, Discourse, and Respect for Edith Nawakwi
During the funeral service at the cathedral for former FDD leader Edith Nawakwi, President Hakainde Hichilema delivered an emotional, unifying address, honoring the ex-minister, legislator, and veteran opposition figure. His words stressed collective solidarity, the necessity of political conversation, and recognizing the work of those who dedicated themselves to Zambia, irrespective of party lines.
Opening with deep sympathy, the President extended condolences from the state, the nation, and its laws to the Siwan community and Nawakwi’s kin, framing her passing as a blow to all Zambians. “We stand with you in sorrow. We stand with you in grief,” he expressed, calling the occasion a time for national introspection.
Celebrating Nawakwi’s impact, he praised her extensive service—as a lawmaker, cabinet member, and fiery opposition force. “I must commend our sister for her efforts… for paving paths we now walk as leaders,” he remarked.
In a striking gesture, he noted opposition figures in attendance, underscoring strength in diversity. “To my counterparts across the aisle, your presence matters. This is how we mend divides,” he said, earning approving cheers.
Addressing FDD Deputy Chifumu Banda’s appeal for more dialogue, he concurred firmly. “Maturity is shown through discourse,” he asserted, clarifying that party rivalry need not breed hostility. “Politics is contest, not conflict… Dialogue resolves all.”
Reflecting on societal progress, he added, “A nation’s worth isn’t in its crises, but in its wisdom to navigate them… not in daily strife, but in choosing dignity.”
Beyond politics, his speech touched on reconciliation and mutual respect. He thanked Nawakwi’s relatives, chiefs, clergy, officials, and journalists for upholding shared ideals.
Closing, he urged Zambians to commemorate Nawakwi through empathy and collaboration. “Let her legacy unite us,” he declared, transforming grief into a rallying cry for cohesion a fitting homage to a leader who, even in death, narrowed Zambia’s political divides.