Chitimukulu to Miss Mpezeni Funeral Over Customs

Bemba King Chitimukulu Cannot Attend Mpezeni Burial, Says Palace

Bemba royal customs prevent Chitimukulu from attending Chief Mpezeni IV’s funeral despite their close relationship.

The Bemba Royal Establishment has explained why Mwinelubemba Chitimukulu will not attend the funeral and burial of the late Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV.

According to Chitimukulu’s secretary, Richard Mukuka, longstanding royal customs prohibit the Bemba king from coming into contact with death or participating in funeral proceedings where the body of the deceased is present.

Mukuka said the traditions apply regardless of personal relationships, adding that the monarch cannot attend funerals, visit graveyards, view bodies, or have physical contact with the deceased.

He noted that Chitimukulu observed the same customs during the funerals of his wife and two children, demonstrating the strict nature of the royal traditions.

The Royal Establishment further stated that when fellow traditional leaders pass away, the Bemba king can only send representatives and pay his respects after burial at a designated mourning site away from where the body was kept.

Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV, who ruled the Ngoni people for 44 years, passed away last Saturday and is expected to be buried on Tuesday. He is survived by his wife, one child, and several grandchildren.