PF, UPND ZEAL

THE zeal with which the Patriotic Front (PF) and the United Party for National Development (UPND) are handling preparations for the national dialogue is a demonstration of true patriotism. No one ever imagined that a Government Minister would magnanimously and freely walk into the UPND secretariat for a progressive discussion. Yes, National Guidance and Religious Affairs Minister Godfridah Sumaili on Saturday emerged confidently at the UPND secretariat as opposition leaders warmly welcomed her. This is a significant leap towards reconciliation in a truly Christian nation. As we continue to espouse Christian values, we need to reflect the image of God through love, holiness, forgiveness, compassion, unity and respect for all regardless of their affiliations. Conduct to the contrary is departing from the very principles and ingredients of a Christian nation. It is tantamount to rebellion. Thus Zambians and politicians in particular, must always appreciate that Jesus Christ reconciled humankind to the kingdom of the Almighty God. If Jesus Christ died for that very fact on the cross of Calvary, why should citizens continue harbouring grudges and unforgiving spirit! Indeed, the word of God emphasises that we are all made in the image of God and that every person is inherently valuable to God. All must be treated with dignity regardless of ethnicity, age, class, status and gender. Therefore, all political players must recant vulgar language, grudges as well as ulterior motives and instead embrace Christian values. The UPND and the PF have agreed in principle that the national dialogue should proceed with the Church having an integral part because of its inherent neutrality and also as a demonstration that Zambia values the body of Christ in words and deeds. Reverend Sumaili and UPND national chairperson Mutale Nalumango depicted a symbol of unity and reconciliation when they got to the round-table at the opposition’s secretariat. For avoidance of any doubt, the two parties invited the media and other stakeholders for the historic meeting. While such strides are being made, it will also be important for other parties to abandon draconian ways of airing their grievances and join the preparations for the national dialogue. Parties that are still steeped in insults and petty squabbles will be left in a deep abyss of failure and solitude. In particular, we appeal to National Democratic Congress leaders to adjust their approach to politics and embrace civility. It is not too late for any one party to join the crusade for unity and reconciliation. The National Restoration Party, Forum for Democracy and Development, UNIP, MMD, United Progress Party led by Dr Saviour Chishimba and Charles Milupi’s Alliance for Democracy and Development and many others are all valuable to this process. It is expected also that the Church will not have offshoots that will feel left out in the national dialogue, bearing in mind that there has been a proliferation of Churches. Therefore, the Church mother bodies – Evangelical Fellowship of Zambia, Church Council of Zambia and the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops – need to galvanise the body of Christ in organised fashion. Civil Society Organisations must equally play a pivotal role in this national assignment to ensure all aspects are included; it should be an all-inclusive process. However, it will be prudent to remain alert as there could be some elements working to torpedo the national dialogue through covert schemes and unguarded statements. The preparations for the national dialogue have started in earnest with resilient commitment by the PF and UPND. The sober approach exhibited thus far points to success and successful it shall be.

PURSUING JUSTICE AND EQUITY WITH INTEGRITY