Gov’t challenged to probe ECL’s death

…Dr Canisius Banda says government must probe the death of former President Lungu because it is shrouded in mystery

By BARNABAS ZULU

THE death of former President Edgar Lungu has been shrouded in mystery and conspiracy theories and it is the duty and mandate of government to conduct comprehensive forensic investigations to establish what could have caused his death, Dr Canisius Banda has said.
Dr Banda says the comprehensive forensic investigation into Mr Lungu’s death had become necessary because of the conspiracy theories and innuendos being peddled, stating that the circumstances surrounding his passing are suspicious and demand answers.

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He said in an interview yesterday that there were growing concerns and allegations circulating on social media that the former head of State may not have died of natural causes while receiving medical treatment in South Africa.
“Whenever the death of someone is shrouded in mystery, both medical practice and natural justice demand that a forensic investigation is conducted,” Dr Banda said. “The Government of the Republic of Zambia should have taken the lead in finding the truth.”
The calls come in the wake of claims made by UK-based Zambian blogger Lillian Mutambo, who is now alleging that former President Lungu was poisoned and that amount of up to US$100,000 were allegedly paid out.
Ms Mutambo, who was once closely associated with the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), has made the claims in a series of viral social media posts but her allegations have yet to be substantiated.
Although there is no official confirmation or evidence yet supporting the claims, Dr Banda says it was irresponsible and dangerous for the government to remain silent when the nation’s mood was tense and speculative.
“When such an investigation is not done, what then remains are rumour and conjecture which can be misleading and divisive for any nation,” he warned.
Dr Banda said that truth-seeking in matters of public concern was a cornerstone of democracy and national healing, especially in cases involving a former head of state.
“Whether or not the allegations are true is a matter for professionals to determine. But silence and inaction are not options. The people deserve the truth,” Dr Banda said.
He also urged the Medical Council of Zambia, the Ministry of Health, and even the South African health authorities to collaborate and ensure that any post-mortem investigations were done transparently and independently.
“We owe it to President Lungu, to his family, and to the people of Zambia to ensure that justice, clarity, and peace of mind are served,” Dr banda said.