Retribution against former minister?
..I’m not recalling diplomats in foreign service because of a former minister
By AARON CHIYANZO PRESIDENT Edgar Lungu says he is not recalling diplomats in the foreign service because of a former minister, as is being misconstrued by some sections of society.
And the President has appointed Patriotic Front (PF) deputy spokesperson Frank Bwalya as Zambia’s High Commissioner to Australia.
Speaking at the swearing in ceremony at State House yesterday, President Lungu reiterated that the diplomats were subject to recall and not appointed to hold of- fice forever.
He said that jobs in the foreign service were held at the President’s pleasure, adding that appointees could be recalled, reappointed elsewhere or completely relieved of duty as the appointing authority saw fit.
President Lungu said that contrary to insinuations by some people, he was not recalling diplomats in the foreign service because of a former minister.
“I am not recalling diplomats in the foreign service because of a former minister, who is a former minister? Jobs in the diplomatic service are held at the pleasure of the President, any President who is in office that is. Diplomats are subject to recall, the power to appoint, comes with the power to recall,” the President said.
Meanwhile, President Lungu expressed confidence that Mr Bwalya would perform to the expectations of the people because he had love for the nation.
He called on the newly appointed diplomat to cement ties with Australia and help attract investments in mining, farming and manufacturing among others.
President Lungu implored Mr Bwalya not to forget about the 7th National Development Plan as he carried out his new mandate.
Mr Bwalya promised to promote industrialisation to create the much-needed jobs for the people. He explained that his job would be easy because he understood the aspirations and expectations of President Lungu.
“I know President Lungu has a heart of gold when it comes to the Zambian people. He wants a perfect life for his people, fresh water, good health, jobs and proper education. So with his support, I will do a great job,” said Mr Bwalya.