President Hichilema Under Fire for Controversial UAE Visit Amidst Dubai Mourning

Zambian President Hichilema embarked on a significant working visit to the United Arab Emirates, a journey aimed at bolstering the country’s ‘Grow Zambia’ agenda. The President underscored the crucial role of robust international partnerships and increased inward investment in achieving this national objective, while expressing gratitude to Zambians for their unwavering support and prayers.

The visit, announced by Acting Foreign Affairs Minister Dr Situmbeko Musokotwane, was officially scheduled from September 29 to 30, following an invitation from UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The itinerary included crucial bilateral talks, investment discussions, and the anticipated signing of various agreements. However, President Hichilema departed Zambia on the night of September 27, two days earlier than the publicly communicated dates. This discrepancy has raised questions, particularly given that Zambia is still awaiting the full formation of his Cabinet. While presidential programmes are subject to change and diplomatic schedules often adjust, the divergence between the announcement and the actual departure necessitates clarification for the public.

Adding a unique backdrop to this diplomatic engagement was Dubai's observance of a 10-day official mourning period, declared following the death of Sheikh Ahmed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the younger brother of Dubai’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. During this period, flags were lowered to half-mast, and some public entertainment and official activities were adjusted. Crucially, this mourning period did not constitute a shutdown of the entire UAE; government business, commercial activities, and diplomatic engagements were permitted to continue.

It is vital to distinguish between the emirates of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. While Dubai observed a mourning period, President Hichilema's official engagements were held in Abu Dhabi, which serves as the federal capital of the United Arab Emirates. In Abu Dhabi, normal government and business operations proceeded without interruption. The invitation extended to President Hichilema originated from the President of the UAE and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, not Dubai’s ruler, and there is no indication that any special exemption or arrangement was made for President Hichilema due to Dubai's mourning period.

Therefore, the more pressing inquiry for Zambians remains closer to home: what necessitated the President’s departure two days earlier than announced? While foreign investment and a strong economic partnership with the UAE are undoubtedly important, a new administration still in the process of assembly warrants transparency regarding changes in the President’s schedule. Concerns have also been raised regarding deliberate attempts by certain individuals to undermine the Presidency and de-market Zambia. Calls have been made for patriotic conduct, urging those disgruntled by election outcomes to maintain dignity. Regardless of individual preferences, Hakainde Hichilema is the President of the Republic of Zambia, and efforts to discredit his leadership are seen as unpatriotic and ultimately futile.