ZAMBIA, once again, stands at a threshold to exemplify its maturity in adherence to the democratic tenets and handling of transition periods, following the death of President Michael Sata.
Yes, how the Zambians, especially leaders, handle the mourning period and the subsequent presidential by-election will determine the country’s next position in the eyes of its peers and the international community.
Truly, the entire international community, starting with neighbouring States, is watching how the haven and bastion of peace will once more weather the otherwise delicate state of affairs.
It is important to note similar circumstances have resulted in conflicts and political mayhems in other countries, but this is Zambia!
This is a country which has been a leader in the promotion of democracy and the rule of law while upholding national aspirations and values.
Already, the interim arrangements which have been put in place so far show that Zambians truly believe so much in the Constitution as the supreme law of the land and are ready to uphold its provisions to the latter.
Yes, we are contented with the Government’s immediate response to the news of the tragic loss of the President and are confident that the 90-day transition period will be characterised by continued peace and stability.
In all these, adherence to the democratic tenets and rule of law is imperative. The nation has done it before.
It walked on this route before when another gallant son of the soil, president Levy Mwanawasa, was called to be with the good Lord, mid-way through his second term of office in 2008.
Then, the doomsayers had predicted that hell would definitely break loose in the otherwise peaceful and democratic country but – thanks be to God – they were proved wrong.
It is, once more, that time to prove such people wrong by upholding the need to mourn Mr Sata with the dignity he deserves – in peace and stability.
Zambia should live by its current description as a sanctuary of peace and a leader in democracy in the region and beyond. That is the depiction which correctly suits this nation.
On that score, it is touching to hear political, student and church leaders, one after the other, proclaiming the need to mourn Mr Sata with decorum, in a peaceful atmosphere.
Leaders across all sections of society have called on compatriots to ensure that they maintain peace and order during and after the mourning period, including the time of the campaigns for the by-election in the offing.
So far, no one has been heard proposing or championing violent acts.
This is as it should be because after all is said and done, Zambia desires to continue existing.
It should continue attracting investments and the goodwill from the international community, both of which depend on the country’s peace and stability.
Certainly, after all this, Zambia needs to maintain its position on the current economic trajectory, which has seen it post high growth rates and other successes in the last decade or so.
Even if the Bembas say, “Uulelila tabamuceba kukanwa (meaning that do not mind how a grieving person behaves), there is need to mourn with dignity, knowing that the person being grieved over was a stately man.
Above all, there is need to realise that the world is watching and ready to emulate this country, which has been a beacon on many fronts.
While brokenhearted, let all Zambians join hands in showing the world that they are different and will not conduct themselves in a stereotype manner where such tragedies like the loss of the beloved Head of State result into the breakdown of peace and order.
Zambia is obliged to lead by example in terms of maintaining peace and, therefore, cannot afford to backslide or slacken on that.  OPINION