KAZEMBE LUNDA ROYAL ESTABLISHMENT BANS POLITICAL REGALIA AT UMUTOMBOKO CEREMONY

MWANSABOMBWE – The revered Kazembe Lunda Royal Establishment in Luapula Province has issued a decisive directive, prohibiting the display of any political regalia, posters, or campaign materials at the highly anticipated Umutomboko traditional ceremony. This significant announcement, made public by the Royal Establishment, underscores a concerted effort to safeguard the cultural integrity and historical significance of one of Zambia's most prominent traditional gatherings. The Umutomboko ceremony, a vibrant celebration of the Lunda people's history and heritage, particularly commemorating their migration and establishment in the Luapula Valley, traditionally draws thousands of attendees, including local residents, tourists, and political figures. However, in recent years, traditional ceremonies across Zambia have increasingly become platforms for political grandstanding, with parties and candidates often using these events to campaign and display their affiliations, sometimes overshadowing the cultural essence. Sources within the Royal Establishment indicate that the decision was reached after careful consideration of past events where political activities threatened to overshadow the cultural and spiritual aspects of the ceremony. “Our traditional ceremonies are sacred. They are meant to unite our people, celebrate our history, and pass on our values to the next generation, not to divide us along political lines,” an unnamed spokesperson for the Establishment was quoted as saying, emphasising the need for impartiality. This move by the Kazembe Lunda Royal Establishment is not an isolated incident but reflects a broader trend among traditional leaders in Zambia who are increasingly asserting their non-partisan roles. Many paramount chiefs and traditional councils have voiced concerns over the politicisation of cultural events, advocating for a return to their original purpose of cultural preservation and community cohesion. Such directives are seen as crucial in