Kafwaya Death Scandal Deepens: Forgiveness Calls, Denials, and Demands for Accountability
The tragic death of Hon. Mutotwe Kafwaya has sparked a political firestorm, with Dr. Zumani Zimba denying accusations of leaking information and defending his political actions. Amidst the controversy, UPND member George N. Mtonga calls for forgiveness for those who commented prematurely on Kafwaya's passing. The nation mourns and seeks truth and justice.
The tragic death of Hon. Mutotwe Kafwaya, former Lunte Member of Parliament, has become a focal point for intense political debate and accusations, leading to a public defense from Dr. Zumani Zimba. Dr. Zimba expressed profound distress over claims circulating among certain PF Pamodzi diaspora bloggers, which he described as politically motivated and malicious. These claims suggest he leaked information to the state regarding the whereabouts of Mr. Mundubile (BM) during an incident where gunshots were exchanged, resulting in Hon. Kafwaya's demise. Dr. Zimba articulated his hurt, stating, “My heart bleeds with such inhuman malice, rehearsed enmity and political hatred towards me.”
Dr. Zimba clarified that his relationship with Hon. Kafwaya was deeply personal and political, spanning since 2016. He regarded Kafwaya not only as a cherished brother in politics but also in Christ, emphasizing their close bond. Regarding the evening of the incident, Dr. Zimba unequivocally stated he was at Parliament House with Mr. Mundubile’s sons and nephews and had no knowledge of the precise location of Mr. Mundubile, Hon. Kafwaya, and their team. He recounted that his secretariat team had earlier received instructions from Mr. Mundubile to ensure polling agents and monitors nationwide possessed physical proof of G20 forms.
Challenging the veracity of the accusations, Dr. Zimba questioned the underlying motive, asking, “What is the motive? Is there anything we need to know as Tonse Alliance?” He also urged for sensitivity towards Hon. Kafwaya’s grieving family during this period of national mourning. Dr. Zimba further defended his political history, recalling his 2021 advice to former President Edgar Lungu to ensure a peaceful transfer of power, which he asserted was aimed at preserving national peace and unity. He firmly stated that his recent calls for political dialogue and reconciliation between President Hakainde Hichilema and Mr. Mundubile should not be misconstrued as an act of betrayal. He underscored that his political stances are rooted in scientific facts and the national interest, proclaiming, “Nothing will change that.” Dr. Zimba concluded his statement by paying a heartfelt tribute to Hon. Kafwaya, wishing for the eternal peace of his soul.
In a related development, George N. Mtonga, a member of the United Party for National Development (UPND), issued a public appeal for forgiveness. Mtonga called upon members of the National Restoration for Peace and Prosperity Party (NRPUP) and the broader public to forgive individuals who commented or posted about Hon. Kafwaya's death before the Zambia Police Service had issued an official confirmation. Via a Facebook post, he appealed for understanding, suggesting that those who made premature comments based on unverified information should be allowed to apologize and seek forgiveness. He expressed a belief that if the full truth surrounding the incident had been known earlier, many would not have treated the matter lightly.
Mtonga additionally urged politicians and their supporters to refrain from engaging in propaganda and to create space for the truth to emerge. He stressed that the solemn matter of Hon. Kafwaya’s death should not be exploited for political gain. As the nation continues to mourn Hon. Kafwaya, there is a widespread call among Zambians for truth and justice to prevail, sentiments echoed by both Dr. Zimba and George N. Mtonga.