Mr. Michael Zephaniah Phiri a Political Activist advises the Army Commander in Zambia

Mr. Michael Zephaniah Phiri a Political Activist in Zambia has advised the Army Commander following his statement on the burial of sixth Republican President Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu. I have taken note of the statement reportedly issued by Army Commander Lt Gen Geoffrey Zyeele concerning the burial of former President and Commander-in-Chief, Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu.

While the Zambia Army holds a respected place in our democracy, it is important to reaffirm that its mandate is strictly non-partisan and subordinate to civilian authority. Any suggestion that the military will take a hard-line stance against citizens voicing their concerns — or asserting cultural and familial rights over their loved ones — is deeply troubling.

If the remarks circulating are indeed from the Commander himself, they risk setting a dangerous precedent. Let us not forget: every soldier is first a child of a civilian. Their duty is to protect all Zambians — not to intimidate or silence them. Zambia is a democratic state, and in democracy, governments come and go.

Power is never permanent. What must endure are our values: respect for the rule of law, civility, and the sanctity of our national institutions. No institution should behave as though it is above the people or the Constitution. This moment calls for calm, restraint, and a return to principles. We must not let emotion override our duty to unity, peace, and order.