Dr. Fred M’membe, head of the Socialist Party, has strongly condemned Permanent Secretary for Information and Media, Thabo Kawana, for publicly disclosing details about former President Edgar Lungu's health condition. Kawana revealed during a media briefing that Lungu was undergoing chemotherapy, a cancer treatment. This disclosure has sparked outrage, with M’membe labeling it as unethical and illegal.

M’membe emphasized the importance of respecting individual privacy, particularly concerning medical information. He contrasted the current situation with past administrations, noting that the health details of former presidents were never disseminated by the government without express permission. He stated, "The discussion and dissemination of anyone’s medical information is unethical and illegal...In my living memory, I can’t remember any sitting government discussing and disseminating the medical information of a former president or, indeed, a political opponent."

M’membe criticized the UPND government, accusing them of eroding Zambian morals and values. He asserted that such actions are inconsistent with Zambia's identity as a Christian nation and African traditions that emphasize respect for personal lives. He called for strong condemnation of Kawana's actions and those in government who support such behavior.

Adding to the controversy, former President Edgar Lungu has accused the current government of spreading falsehoods. Lungu refuted claims that President Hichilema has been in communication with him, stating, "I cannot remember the last time President Hichilema talked to me. These guys are nothing but liars." He appealed to Zambians to reject the government's alleged dishonesty.

The situation raises significant questions about the ethical boundaries of disclosing private health information and the state of political discourse in Zambia. The clash highlights the tensions between the current administration and the opposition, with accusations of unethical behavior and dishonesty dominating the narrative.