Vice President Mutale Nalumango has unequivocally stated that any attempt to organize a state funeral for the late former President Edgar Lungu without the presence or involvement of the incumbent Head of State, President Hakainde Hichilema, would constitute an act of treason. This strong declaration was made during the vice president's question time in parliament, where she expressed bewilderment at the very notion of conducting a state funeral without the recognized head of the state, issuing a stern warning to opposition members about the perilous trajectory they seemed to be pursuing.

Mrs. Nalumango's comments came in direct response to a query from Matero Member of Parliament Miles Sampa. Mr. Sampa had sought clarification on the government's stance regarding the wishes of former President Edgar Lungu's family, who reportedly desired that President Hakainde Hichilema should not attend Lungu's funeral. In addressing this sensitive matter, the Vice President underscored the non-partisan nature of the presidency, asserting that "Lungu was a president for all Zambians even those who never liked him and President Hichilema is a President even for those who don't like him."

She further elaborated on the constitutional implications, emphasizing that "He was the president, there was no alternative president or parallel president like they want to put it that they can have a state funeral without the Head of State." Vice President Nalumango took the opportunity to critique the opposition for what she perceived as the politicization of a solemn period of national mourning. She passionately urged all parties to respect the grieving family and to acknowledge the nation's collective sorrow with dignity and unity.

In a final appeal, Mrs. Nalumango reiterated her call for national cohesion during this sensitive time, imploring all Zambians to honor the memory of the late President with the utmost respect and to steer clear of any actions or statements that would politicize the funeral proceedings, thereby ensuring that the solemnity of the occasion is maintained.