Lukulu Tragedy: Govt Cries Foul, Defends Doctors

Govt. expresses condolences to the bereaved family and urges public support for healthcare workers while condemning hospital disruptions.

Lusaka, Zambia24  -  (28 - September 2025) – Government has expressed deep condolences to the family of a 28-year-old female patient who died at Lukulu District Hospital, while calling on the public to support healthcare workers and refrain from disruptive behavior in medical facilities.

Speaking during a joint press briefing today, Ministry of Health Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Dr. Kennedy Lishimpi, confirmed that the deceased patient, who had been living with epilepsy, was referred from Luvuzi Mini Hospital in Western Province and arrived at Lukulu District Hospital in a semi-comatose state. 

"Despite tireless efforts by the medical team to resuscitate and treat her for malaria parasites, she passed away," he said.

Dr. Lishimpi emphasized that the tragedy underscores the importance of early medical attention and collaboration between families and health workers. 

“Late presentation of diseases severely affects treatment outcomes. Prompt medical care can make a significant difference in saving lives,” he said.

He urged the community to place trust in healthcare providers and avoid disturbing them during critical procedures, warning that such interference could compromise patient safety. 

"Families with grievances, he advised, should report concerns to the district health office or hospital authorities through established channels," he explained.

Meanwhile, Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary, Mr. Thabo Kawana, appealed to citizens to respect patient confidentiality and stop recording videos in hospitals for social media purposes. 

He described the circulation of the recent Lukulu video as a violation of patient rights and dignity.

“Filming patients in vulnerable conditions is unacceptable. It not only breaches confidentiality but also interferes with the critical work of saving lives,” Kawana said. 

He cautioned that such actions, particularly during the election period, could be exploited for political gain and warned that offenders would face the full force of the law.

Both officials reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting healthcare workers and ensuring that patients receive safe, dignified, and timely medical care.