President Hichilema Hails Paramount Chief Mpezeni as a Unifier and True Patriot

President Hakainde Hichilema has paid a moving tribute to the late Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV, describing him as a unifier, patriot and servant leader whose contribution to national unity and development will remain etched in Zambia's history.

Speaking at Ephendukeni Palace in Chipata today during the burial of the Ngwenyama, the President said the late traditional leader carried not only the authority of a king but values rooted in love, unity and service to his people. He noted that across a remarkable 44-year reign, Paramount Chief Mpezeni worked harmoniously with all seven of Zambia's Republican Presidents, placing national cohesion above political interest.

President Hichilema praised the late king for recognising and celebrating all cultures without segregation, and for elevating the Nc'wala Traditional Ceremony into one of the country's most cherished cultural events. "We can do well to emulate him," he said.

The President also reflected on the Paramount Chief's strong support for government's development agenda. A passionate advocate of self-reliance, the late king championed food security, producing enough for both his family and the Ngoni Kingdom while encouraging his people to do the same. He embraced the Free Education Policy, which has opened the classroom to more than 2.5 million children, and backed the effective use of the Constituency Development Fund across health, energy, education and rural infrastructure.