PRESIDENT HICHILEMA HONOURS LATE ARCHBISHOP MPUNDU

PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema today joined hundreds of mourners in paying tribute to the late Archbishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of Lusaka, His Grace, Most Reverend Telesphore George Mpundu, describing him as a guiding light whose legacy will endure for generations.

The President, accompanied by senior government officials, attended the solemn valedictory service held at the Child Jesus, Pope Square in Lusaka this morning.

President Hichilema observed that the late Archbishop had touched countless lives across the country through his dedicated evangelical mission and unwavering commitment to social justice.

The Head of State stated that the late Archbishop Mpundu was a fountain of wisdom who consistently offered critical guidance to leadership during both peaceful and challenging national periods.

“Archbishop Mpundu touched countless lives through his evangelical mission,” President Hichilema stated. “During challenging moments, including our time in government, he continued to offer us guidance. We honour his contributions and celebrate his life.”

President Hichilema further urged Zambians to emulate the values of selflessness and national unity that the late clergyman championed throughout his lifelong service to the Church and the nation.

He emphasized that Archbishop Mpundu leaves behind an indelible footprint of spiritual leadership and integrity that should serve as a blueprint for all citizens.

Delivering his homily, Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Lusaka, Alick Banda extolled his predecessor as a compassionate servant of God, an unyielding champion of the poor, and an irreplaceable voice of the voiceless who stood firmly for social and economic justice.

Archbishop Banda stated that the late prelate’s life was defined by humility, wisdom, and an exceptional dedication to the Gospel. He praised Archbishop Mpundu’s unwavering courage to speak truth to power without selection based on gender, status, or tribe.

“He spoke boldly without fear on corruption, was an advocate of social and economic justice, and was deeply adverse to the abuse of power,” Archbishop Banda observed. “He championed a level political landscape and remained focused in times of challenges, guiding those in his care with faith, care, and hope.”

The Archbishop reminded the congregation that the late prelate’s life was refined through continuous personal sacrifice and the sacraments, serving as a  reminder that true Christian discipleship demands perseverance.

“His life challenges us to live with courage and conviction, and not merely what seems comfortable. Discipleship is not easy, as it requires dedication, values, and carrying one’s cross daily,” he added.

Archbishop Banda further extended his gratitude to the family of the late prelate for standing by him during his final hours, and thanked all the priests who diligently tended to his health needs.

The late Archbishop Mpundu, who passed away on 15^th May, was widely respected across the political and social divide for his fearless advocacy for the rule of law, human rights, and the welfare of ordinary Zambians.

The   requiem mass was attended by various church leaders, members of the diplomatic corps, traditional leaders, and hundreds of the Catholic faithful who gathered to bid their final farewell.