UNIP in disarray as Mwamba suspends his VP Kaira

CONFUSION has rocked the United National Independence Party, (UNIP) as its president Bishop Trevor Mwamba has counter suspended the Vice President Mike Kaira barely 48 hours after the latter acted on him.

Bishop Mwamba, who claimed some individuals were after the party’s property said gross indiscipline by members would not be condoned.

“I will not condone as the party constitution clearly outlines the steps to be followed in dealing with erring members,” he said.

Bishop Mwamba said he had found immense opposition because of his decision to have the Zambia National Holdings run by professionals and experts away from political interference.

He said the suspension of Mr. Kaira was in line with the powers vested in him in the UNIP constitution. Bishop Mwamba called for a central committee meeting on last

Saturday, May 14, which unanimously endorsed the suspension of the Secretary General Mulenga Mwiche.

He said it was shocking that on Sunday the Mr Kaira announced that he had suspended him as UNIP president and took over as acting President.

But when contacted for a comment, Mr. Kaira referred all queries to Mr. Mwiche, whom Bishop Mwamba suspended.

Mr. Kaira said when he announced the suspension of Bishop Mwamba, he was merely communicating the decision of the central committee held on Saturday which decided to suspend him.

He said Bishop Mwamba had walked out of a meeting before it was concluded and members of the central committee reconvened and decided to suspend him.

And speaking earlier during the press briefing, acting Secretary General Kenneth Kaira said the party is strong and urged the members not to allow confusion.