EMBRACE NDF, SAYS MALANJI
of Parliament from the opposition to embrace the National Dialogue Forum (NDF) because it will create a permanent base for dialogue, says Foreign Affairs Minister Joe Malanji.
Mr Malanji said there was no need for the opposition MPs and other stakeholders to boycott the NDF which starts sitting today in Lusaka.
He wondered why opposition leaders were shifting goal posts after a permanent platform for dialogue had been legally established.
The minister, who is also Kwacha Member of Parliament was speaking in an interview in Kitwe after attending the Easter mass at St Matthew, the Apostle Church in Nkana East residential area. “I think my Easter message is that, as Zambians let us continue to live in peace and harmony. God has blessed us with peace and we should nurture it. Let us embrace dialogue and reconciliation.
“For our brothers who are against the NDF, I am encouraging them to embrace it because it will create a firm ground for dialogue and reconciliation. What Government has done is to give it a recognised policy,’’ Mr Malanji said.
Meanwhile, Mr Malanji said despite his busy schedule, he would always find time for the church, the schools and other stakeholders in the area.
He appealed to the church to continue praying for peace, harmony and unity in Zambia and also reject the spirit of division which some people would like to bring in the country.
“We are one people despite coming from different tribes, religions, political parties and regions of the country. Therefore, there is no need to fight over anything. This is why this Government will always appeal to the Church to preach unity and peace.
“We also ask the church to pray for us, who are in Government to exhibit humility and always be ready to serve the people. As the PF, President Edgar Lungu has always respected the Church,’’ he said.