The State House has made it clear that the President’s attendance at the event will not overshadow the role of Paramount Chief Chitimukulu as the guest of honor, as the President is simply attending as a citizen.
State House Chief Communications Specialist Clayson Hamasaka mentioned that President Hichilema eagerly anticipates the event, which he has been attending even during times of opposition.
He emphasized that Paramount Chief Chitimukulu’s presence at the cultural ceremony plays a significant role in promoting national unity and peaceful coexistence among the various ethnic groups in the country.
Mr. Hamasaka reiterated that President Hichilema’s attendance at the Kuomboka Ceremony is in response to the invitation extended to His Royal Highness Paramount Chief Chitimukulu as the guest of honor.
He clarified that the invitation of the paramount chief is a reciprocal gesture, following a similar invitation extended to another traditional leader in the past, which President Hichilema fully supported.
It was stressed that President Hichilema has no intention of taking over the role of Paramount Chief Chitimukulu as the Guest of Honour at this year’s Kuomboka ceremony, as he is attending as a citizen and an enthusiast of the event.
Mr. Hamasaka highlighted that President Hichilema values cultural exchanges among traditional leaders and encourages ceremonies and engagements to be presided over by leaders from different regions to promote unity and understanding.
According to Mr. Hamasaka, this endeavor is bound to foster a sense of national togetherness and harmonious cohabitation among the various ethnic communities within our nation.