Zambia’s parliament has expelled opposition lawmaker Tasila Lungu, ruling that her prolonged absence—driven by an unresolved legal battle over the burial of her late father, former President Edgar Lungu—made it impossible for her to effectively carry out her duties. Lungu, who represented the Chawama constituency under the Patriotic Front (PF), suggested to supporters that she may contest the decision, remarking that “where there is a will there is a way.”
Burial Disagreement at the Centre of Absence
Edgar Lungu died in June while receiving medical treatment in South Africa. His passing has triggered a highly publicised dispute between the Lungu family and the administration of President Hakainde Hichilema over the funeral arrangements. Reports indicate the family maintains that the former president wanted Hichilema excluded from his funeral proceedings, while the government argues that state protocol requires the sitting president’s attendance at any state burial.
Because of the impasse, the former president’s body remains in South Africa, generating mounting tension and repeated court challenges as both sides argue over who should control the process.
Parliament Questions Absence
Tasila Lungu has spent extended periods in South Africa attending court hearings connected to the burial dispute. Members of the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) raised concerns about her long absence from legislative duties, prompting Speaker Nelly Mutti to initially approve compassionate leave and request her return by the parliamentary reopening in September. Lungu failed to attend the session.
Parliament later contacted her again. Instead of resuming her duties in person, she asked for additional time and sought permission to participate remotely due to the ongoing legal complications surrounding her father’s burial. The matter was forwarded to the Committee on Privileges and Absences, which invited her to appear on 18 November, but she did not respond.
While the committee recommended allowing her to attend virtually until burial arrangements were resolved, Speaker Mutti rejected the idea, explaining that virtual participation could not substitute for in-person representation, especially in a constituency-focused parliamentary system.
Mixed Reactions Across the Country
In a message to the people of Chawama, Lungu expressed gratitude to local councillors, community leaders, and staff who continued serving residents during her absence.
A by-election is expected within 90 days, even as Zambia prepares for national polls in August next year—raising concerns about political fatigue and election costs.
Public reaction to Lungu’s removal has been sharply divided. Several Zambians argue that she should have been given more time to mourn and fulfil family responsibilities. Others insist that her extended absence left her constituency without adequate representation.
Independent MP Binwell Mpundu criticised the government’s handling of the situation, accusing officials of showing “double standards” by expressing sympathy toward the Lungu family while simultaneously challenging them in court and supporting the seat’s removal.
Political Tensions Likely to Continue
The decision adds to the already heated political atmosphere between the PF and the UPND ahead of the 2026 general elections. Analysts say the dispute over Edgar Lungu’s funeral—combined with the removal of his daughter from parliament—may escalate partisan tensions in the coming months.
Source: Africa Publicity
Read Also…
Senegal Condemns Guinea-Bissau Military Takeover as Regional Pressure Intensifies
Tunisia Issues Harsh Sentences in Mass Opposition Trial as Concerns Over Democratic Backsliding Grow
