On a recent Friday, Tonse Alliance presidential candidate Brian Mundubile, alongside his running mate Makebi Zulu, embarked on a significant political visit to Chawama, Lusaka. The day commenced with a memorial church service dedicated to the late President Lungu, followed by a motorcade through the politically symbolic constituency. The enthusiastic response from the community was undeniable; supporters lined the roads, waved, chanted slogans, and followed the convoy through the densely populated areas where former President Edgar Lungu had cultivated a substantial portion of his political identity. Men, women, and young people emerged from various establishments and residential zones as the procession advanced, creating an atmosphere that felt more like a political homecoming than a somber funeral remembrance. Photographs from the event depicted supporters raising clenched fists and waving towards the convoy, which was at times enveloped by residents eager to catch a glimpse of the alliance leaders.

This significant turnout serves as an early indicator of the Tonse Alliance's potential strength as the campaign progresses into its critical stages. Chawama holds particular importance beyond being just another constituency; it was Edgar Lungu’s foundational political base, and his daughter, Tasila Lungu, later served as its Member of Parliament. For many residents, the political landscape remains intricately linked with the memory of the former president, a reality central to the Tonse Alliance's campaign strategy.

Since Lungu’s passing a year prior, the alliance and figures closely associated with him have consistently highlighted the unresolved burial dispute, portraying it as a denial of a dignified send-off. This issue has transcended a mere family matter, evolving into a recurrent political theme within opposition messaging. Makebi Zulu, who serves as the Lungu family’s lawyer and spokesperson, has been a prominent voice on this matter. His visible presence alongside Mundubile has reinforced perceptions among supporters that the Tonse Alliance is the primary political custodian of Lungu’s enduring legacy. Friday’s events seemingly solidified this connection, with the late president's memory serving as a unifying theme throughout the day. Supporters frequently invoked his name, and many used the occasion to voice their frustration over the fact that Zambia’s sixth president remained unburied a year after his death.

Meanwhile, during the 13:00 hours Holy Mass at the Cathedral of the Child Jesus in Lusaka, Mass celebrant Archbishop Dr. Alick Banda dedicated the service to the late President Lungu. Archbishop Banda eulogized Dr. Lungu as a generous and people-centred leader, describing him as a humble, sociable, and approachable man whose leadership was deeply rooted in service to others. “We are grateful as we give thanks to the Lord for the life he lived, the service he accomplished, and the witness of faith that he gave — at times quietly and at times boldly — both in public and in private life,” Archbishop Banda stated. He further noted Lungu's ease of relating with people from all walks of life, affirming that “One can describe the late President as a humble man — easy to relate with, generous, sociable, approachable, and available. He was the people’s President. Like many of us, he had both strengths and weaknesses.” Archbishop Banda urged Zambians to reflect on the lessons Dr. Lungu imparted, particularly concerning leadership, humility, and service, emphasizing that “leadership is service, true authority is rooted in humility, and genuine leaders lift up others.” It was reiterated that Lungu passed away in a South African hospital on June 5, 2025, and is yet to be buried.

Beyond the powerful symbolism and emotional tributes, a crucial political question remains: Can the deep emotional attachment to Edgar Lungu effectively translate into votes for Brian Mundubile? This outcome remains uncertain. Historical political patterns suggest that sympathy, nostalgia, and a focus on legacy can energize a political base and strengthen support in traditional strongholds. However, winning a national election demands converting such sentiment into a broader, coherent governing message capable of attracting voters beyond solely loyal constituencies. For the moment, Chawama appears notably receptive to the Tonse Alliance’s message. Whether this energy will extend beyond the constituency and resonate with the wider national electorate will become clearer as the political campaign intensifies in the coming weeks. Nevertheless, one aspect was unmistakable on Friday: a year after Edgar Lungu’s death, his political presence continues to exert a significant influence over the constituency he once proudly called home.