Joseph Kalimbwe’s “Stay in Your Lane” Post Sparks Outrage as Middle East War Escalates
Joseph Kalimbwe, a Zambian political activist known for his controversial takes, has found himself in the eye of a social media storm. His recent post on X (formerly Twitter) about the escalating war in the Middle East triggered a firestorm of criticism, particularly from South Africans who felt insulted by his remarks.
Kalimbwe wrote: “Zambia, SA, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana – let’s not issue any funny statements on the War in Middle East. With all due respect to all SADC Countries, and all other Africans let’s stick to issues here at home. This isn’t our league, its a war, not an Amapiano Dance Competition!!”
Kalimbwe’s post quickly went viral for all the wrong reasons, with social media users blasting him for seemingly dismissing the importance of Africa’s stance on global conflicts.
One user, @MyNameIsZee, didn’t hold back: “Wena you know nothing, South Africa has a huge role to play FYI. Go back to where it all started. Unlike your leaders, SA is not a licker of asses! Iran shall remain our ally. Bye!” The response was sharp, highlighting South Africa’s geopolitical influence and rejecting Kalimbwe’s downplay of the war.
Other reactions echoed similar sentiments. @African Agenda provided a more reflective take: “War affects vulnerable women, children and even men. War robs a people of their present and future… It’s a global issue.” This response underscored the widespread impact of war beyond borders, challenging Kalimbwe’s isolationist approach.
But it didn’t stop there. @Who Singo fumed: “Stop your nonsense… South Africa is in a league of its own,” fueling an already heated debate about South Africa’s role on the international stage. Meanwhile, @Ingeniuer threw in a curveball: “To hell with Iran. This Zimbabwean Prophet collected all the burdens from congregates and took them to Jerusalem. This war might break the vault.” An odd, but passionate response.
As the war between Israel and Iran continues to intensify, with Iran launching over 180 missiles, tensions are at an all-time high. The missiles rained down on Israel, lighting up the night skies above Tel Aviv and Jerusalem. Millions scrambled for safety in bomb shelters, while explosions shook the cities. A man in Jericho, in the occupied West Bank, tragically lost his life to falling debris.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu didn’t mince words, declaring that Iran had made a “big mistake” and warning that they “will pay for it.”
With the conflict intensifying and the social media drama surrounding Kalimbwe’s post escalating just as fast, it’s clear that this war is as much a global issue as it is a Middle Eastern one. Africa might be far from the region, but Kalimbwe’s ill-timed post has certainly brought home how connected the world is, even in matters of war.
