By Given Mutinta
YOU CANNOT WAVE AT CHIEFS AND KINGS
The adage “When in Rome, do as the Romans do” highlights the importance of embracing local customs, especially in culturally significant moments such as funerals.
This principle was vividly demonstrated in a negative light when President Hakainde Hichilema attended King Mpezeni’s funeral.
Observers noticed that he greeted chiefs and kings by waving, just as he does with his supporters, or cadres.
Using the same casual greeting with both political cadres and revered traditional leaders undermines the respect they command.
It can inadvertently be perceived as disrespectful, even if no offense is intended.
President Hichilema should have consulted with his political advisor, Levy Ngoma, to better understand and adapt to the funeral cultural code.
By greeting chiefs and kings in the manner their culture prescribes, he would have demonstrated acknowledgment of local authority and tradition.
Differentiating greetings is not about formality for its own sake but about honouring identity, status, and cultural values that shape community cohesion.
Respect culture regardless of how powerful you are, “bane”.