Augustine Mukoka Accuses Nevers Mumba of Using Fear and Falsehoods in Campaign Rhetoric
Political commentator Augustine Mukoka has criticised Dr. Nevers Mumba over remarks he made during President Hakainde Hichilema’s campaign rally in Solwezi, accusing the veteran politician and clergyman of promoting fear, superstition, and misinformation instead of engaging in issue-based politics.
In an opinion article titled “Thou Shalt Not Bear False Witness: Dr. Nevers Mumba Should Campaign With Facts, Not Fear & Falsehoods,” Mukoka argues that Dr. Mumba crossed the line from political criticism into what he describes as dangerous misinformation.
According to Mukoka, Dr. Mumba allegedly suggested that the Tonse Alliance was effectively campaigning with the remains of former President Edgar Lungu, claiming the opposition coalition was moving around with “iChitumbi” and warning that it would govern under a “spell of death” if elected.
Mukoka describes the remarks as extraordinary and unsupported by evidence, arguing that political campaigns should focus on policies, leadership, and ideas rather than fear or spiritual narratives.
Burial Dispute Should Not Be Distorted, Mukoka Says
Mukoka also revisited the dispute surrounding the burial of former President Edgar Lungu, outlining what he believes are the facts behind the prolonged process.
He states that, according to the Lungu family, the late former President had expressed a wish that President Hichilema should not officiate as chief mourner due to grievances relating to how his administration handled matters during Lungu’s illness.
Mukoka further notes that while a compromise was reportedly reached allowing President Hichilema to attend the funeral, disagreements later arose over the management of funeral arrangements. According to his account, those disagreements ultimately led the family to opt for burial in South Africa before legal proceedings followed.
The burial dispute eventually reached South Africa’s Supreme Court of Appeal, which ruled in favour of the family’s right to determine the burial arrangements.
Call for Responsible Political Discourse
Mukoka argues that while political disagreement is expected during election campaigns, leaders should avoid making statements that could encourage fear or exploit deeply rooted cultural beliefs.
He warns that references to death, curses, and supernatural claims can have unintended consequences in communities where beliefs in witchcraft remain widespread.
Drawing on previous incidents in Zambia involving accusations linked to superstition, Mukoka says public figures have a responsibility to choose their words carefully and avoid rhetoric that could inflame emotions or contribute to misunderstanding.
Focus on Policies, Not Personal Attacks
The opinion concludes by urging Dr. Mumba and all political leaders to focus their campaigns on policies, governance, and development instead of personal attacks or emotionally charged narratives.
Mukoka maintains that democratic competition should be based on facts and ideas rather than fear or misinformation, adding that leaders who claim moral authority should uphold the principles of honesty and truthfulness in public discourse.
