We are injuring ECL family – Sikaile

By BARNABAS ZULU

SIKAILE Sikaile, a sympathiser of the governing UPND has appealed to fellow members and social media users to refrain from making hurtful comments against the late former President Edgar Lungu and his family, cautioning that such remarks risk deepening division during an already sensitive period.
In a statement issued yesterday, Mr. Sikaile called for a pause in online commentary about the late President Lungu’s funeral, emphasising the need to allow room for dialogue between Government, the Lungu family and other stakeholders.
“My sincere appeal to colleagues on social media is this: let us cease fire and create a respectful space that allows both parties to reach a constructive agreement,” Mr. Sikaile said.
He clarified that he would not participate in further discussion on the matter until an official resolution was reached.
“Please note that I will not engage in further discussions regarding the funeral matter of our former President Mr. Edgar Lungu until the government and other relevant stakeholders (Lungu family, PF) reach a final decision in the next phase amidst court processes from both parties,” he said.
Mr. Sikaile, who is also affiliated with Amnesty International, called on UPND supporters to emulate President Hakainde Hichilema’s respectful and measured tone when addressing the late president’s passing.
“To those who believe in and support President Hakainde Hichilema – if your support is genuine and intended to build his legacy and image – I humbly urge you to ensure that your comments, in whatever form, reflect his respectful and measured approach to this sensitive matter from the very beginning,” Mr Sikaile said.
He reminded social media users that the President himself has stated that he pays attention to what is said online.
“Just as President Hichilema has acknowledged that he pays attention to what we say, let us also be mindful that the other parties involved are watching closely. Our words on social media can either strengthen efforts toward unity or hinder the possibility of mutual understanding,” Mr. Sikaile warned. He stressed the importance of allowing the government and stakeholder’s space to carry out constructive engagement without pressure or provocation from online platforms.
“Let the government and relevant stakeholders be given the space and trust to engage in dialogue. As spectators, we have said enough,” he said.
Mr. Sikaile warned that continued political commentary – especially from a place of alignment or loyalty – could make matters worse.
“The more we continue commenting often from the lens of political alignment or perceived loyalty, the more we risk making it difficult for all sides to reach a decision that is in the best interest of our nation,” he said.
Calling for maturity and national unity, he denounced character assassination and encouraged citizens to focus on what is morally right.
“Character assassination from both sides must be avoided at all costs. This is a time for reflection and doing what is right, not for personal gain, but for the good of our great nation, Zambia,” Mr. Sikaile said.
“Let us continue to pray for both parties, especially the family, who need our support now more than ever during this difficult time. Let us please refrain from further commentary on social media. God bless you all.”