‘Opposition inciting chiefs’ upheaval’

SOME opposition working with foreign-funded entities are creating discontent among some chiefs so that they can rebel against President Edgar Lungu, a consortium of civil society organisations has said.

Spokesperson Spuki Mulemwa said President Lungu’s meeting with traditional leaders in NorthWestern Province had shamed those who wanted to brainwash people in opposition strongholds into believing that they were paying for not voting for the Patriotic Front by being denied development.

Mr Mulemwa said President Lungu’s assurance of development across the country had shattered the dreams of doomsayers who were scheming to make the country ungovernable through allegations of discriminatory development.

“We, as a consortium of political parties and non–governmental organisations, have noted how President Lungu is determined to take development to all parts of the country. President Lungu’s non-stop tour of duty to check on developmental projects demonstrates his commitment to taking development to all parts of the country,” Mr Mulemwa said.

“It’s worth noting that President Lungu’s recent two-day working visit to the North-Western Province where he got few votes to check on various projects and interact with the people speaks volumes about his development agenda,” he said. President Lungu had not only demonstrated that he did not want to leave anyone behind in his quest to develop the country, but also embraced everyone regardless of their creed, tribe, political or religious affiliation.

Mr Mulemwa said President Lungu had demonstrated that he upheld the tenets of democracy as he tolerated divergent views and constructive criticism.

“These facts prove that President Lungu is indeed a president for all Zambians. He has also at various fora been preaching the message of love and peace anchored on One Zambian One Nation.

We believe that development should be anchored on the national principles and values of love, coexistence, peace and unity as espoused by the Head of State,” he said.

He urged all Zambians to support President Lungu’s agenda to preach peace, unify the nation, take development to all parts of the country and improve the welfare of all citizens through various empowerment initiatives,” Mr Mulemwa said.