“ZAMBIAN HISTORY MUST BE REWRITTEN”: BAROTSELAND ACTIVIST MUYUNDA MAKALA QUESTIONS EXCLUSION OF LITUNGA SIR MWANAWINA III FROM INDEPENDENCE NARRATIVE
Barotseland human rights and good governance activist Muyunda Makala says Zambian history is based on lies and deceit and must be re-written.
In a strongly worded statement published on his Facebook, Muyunda Makala who is also the Secretary general of Barotseland Nationalist Youth Alliance, accused Zambia’s historical narrative of being founded on “lies and deceit,” arguing that the Litunga’s role in the country’s formation deserves greater recognition.
Makala pointed to the Barotseland Agreement of 18 May 1964, signed by representatives of Barotseland and the Northern Rhodesian government, which outlined the arrangements for Barotseland to become part of an independent Zambia.
According to the activist, it is difficult to discuss Zambia’s formation as a unitary state without acknowledging Litunga Sir Mwanawina III, who signed the agreement on behalf of Barotseland.
“You will never hear Zambians talk about Litunga Sir Mwanawina III during their independence celebrations,” Makala lamented.
He also questioned whether Zambia would ever posthumously honour the Litunga, who was awarded the title of Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE), for his historical contributions.
Makala also highlighted Sir Mwanawina III’s contribution during the First World War, arguing that his involvement in efforts to halt German advancement into Northern Rhodesia deserves recognition.
He maintained that the Litunga’s decision to sign the Barotseland Agreement was significant, questioning what Zambia’s political history might have looked like had he refused.
His remarks raise broader questions about historical representation, the recognition of Barotseland’s political history, and whether Zambia’s Independence Day celebrations adequately reflect the contributions of all parties involved in the country’s formation.
Makala called for a reassessment of Zambia’s historical accounts, insisting that the country’s past should be examined beyond the narratives traditionally presented during national commemorations.
“The bogus history should be re-written!” he declared.
His statement comes as Zambians prepare to mark another anniversary of independence, a period traditionally characterised by national pride, reflection on the country’s journey, and recognition of those who contributed to its political development.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Muyunda Makala is a Good Governance Activist, a Barotse Civil Rights Activist, and Social Commentator. Makala’s work focuses on finding alternative solutions to address the historical and political grievances of the Barotse people. His writings offer a nuanced perspective on the complex issues surrounding Barotseland’s status within Zambia. Being an activist, Makala is also part of a broader movements seeking to promote the rights and interests of the Barotse people.
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