ZAMBIA: President Lungu Congratulates Bishop-elect of Mpika Diocese

Mwenya Mukuka

State President Edgar Lungu says the appointment of Rev. Father Edwin Mulandu as bishop shows great confidence Pope Francis has in him to shepherd people in the Mpika Diocese.

The Head of State says he has no doubt that Bishop-elect Mulandu with vast professional and pastoral knowledge, experience and capacity will succeed in his new appointment.

President Lungu said this in his congratulatory message to Reverend Mulandu following his appointment as Catholic Bishop for Mpika Diocese.

Mpika Diocese has 34 parishes and two missions covering parts of Muchinga and Northern Provinces with over 200,000 Catholics in the region.

“It is with great pleasure that I extend heartfelt congratulations on your appointment as Bishop of Mpika by His Holiness Pope Francis. I, too, am confident that with your strong foundation of not only a rich professional background but also a profound pastoral experience, you will be able to rise to the enormous responsibilities that lie ahead of you,” reads part of President Lungu’s message to Bishop-elect Mulandu.

President Lungu has since assured the Bishop-elect Mulandu of government’s support to aid the church in its work of ministering to people and complementing the State in the promotion of socio-economic development in the country.

“As we strive towards a common goal of promoting the human dignity and peace in our country, I for my part, will ensure that you receive the necessary cooperation from government functionaries falling under your jurisdiction,” said President Lungu.

In a press statement issued to the media in Lusaka on Wednesday, 28^th April 2021, the Head of State wishes the Bishop-elect Mulandu God’s guidance as he assumes duties in his new office.