Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa has appealed to the nation to remain calm and united as the country continues to mourn the late Sixth Republican President, Mr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu.

This comes after an announcement by the family spokesperson, Mr. Makebi Zulu, confirming that the former President’s remains will not be flown back to Zambia today as earlier expected.

Addressing mourners at the funeral service of the late Mweemba Mubita, Zambia’s First Secretary for Education at the Zambian Mission in Australia, held in Choma this afternoon, Mr. Mweetwa described the development as deeply saddening and concerning for many Zambians.

He noted that the government and the Lungu family had engaged in extensive and productive discussions, which led to joint announcements in South Africa that initially gave the impression the matter had been amicably resolved.

Mr. Mweetwa acknowledged the disappointment and concern that the family’s latest decision may have caused among citizens, but expressed optimism that the challenges will soon be overcome.

“This is only a temporary setback. With God’s guidance, we are confident that all outstanding issues will be resolved peacefully and in a spirit of unity,” he stated.

He further encouraged Zambians serving in the diplomatic corps to emulate the late Mweemba Mubita’s dedication and service to the nation.