The most high-profile criticism came from the opposition: United Party for National Development (UPND) leader Hakainde Hichilema called on people to wear black to commemorate and not celebrate the occasion:
Ukosoaji mkubwa ulitoka upinzani: kiongozi mkuu wa chama cha United Party for National Development (UPND) Hakainde Hichilema aliyetoa wito kwa watu kuvaa nguo nyeusi kuomboleza na sio kusherehekea tukio hilo: