Citizens Call for Return of Experienced Ministers in Hichilema’s New Cabinet

Citizens Call for Return of Experienced Ministers in Hichilema’s New Cabinet By: Mulabasa Staff Reporter LUSAKA — As President Hakainde Hichilema begins his renewed mandate, some citizens are calling on him to consider retaining or reappointing experienced former ministers who served in the first New Dawn Government. The citizens argue that bringing back some former […]

Citizens Call for Return of Experienced Ministers in Hichilema’s New Cabinet

By: Mulabasa Staff Reporter

LUSAKA — As President Hakainde Hichilema begins his renewed mandate, some citizens are calling on him to consider retaining or reappointing experienced former ministers who served in the first New Dawn Government.

The citizens argue that bringing back some former ministers with government experience would help ensure continuity in implementing the President’s agenda and vision while also providing institutional knowledge to the new administration.

Among those being mentioned is former Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry Chipoka Mulenga, whom some citizens believe could be considered for the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development.

Supporters of the proposal say Mr Mulenga demonstrated a strong understanding of the New Dawn Government’s policies during his tenure at the Ministry of Commerce and was frequently available on television and radio programmes to explain government programmes and the President’s vision.

They further argue that his background and understanding of the mining sector, coupled with his previous experience in commerce, could position him to perform effectively if appointed to the Ministry of Mines and Minerals Development.

Other former ministers whose return is being suggested include former Minister of Finance Dr Situmbeko Musokotwane, former Minister of Technology and Science Felix Mutati, former Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Charles Milupi, and former Minister of Energy Peter Chibwe Kapala.

The calls come amid expectations that President Hichilema will constitute a Cabinet capable of driving his agenda during his renewed term in office.

Citizens have also expressed interest in seeing a Cabinet that balances experience with the inclusion of younger leaders and more women in senior government positions.

According to those advocating for the approach, newly elected young members of Parliament could benefit from working alongside experienced members who understand government systems and public administration.

There are also calls for the President to consider former Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts Elvis Nkandu for another ministerial responsibility, with supporters arguing that his previous experience could still be useful to the administration.

The proposed approach, according to citizens, would allow the President to combine experienced hands with new talent while maintaining continuity in the implementation of government programmes.

Ultimately, the decision on Cabinet appointments remains the President’s prerogative, as he weighs experience, performance, regional representation, gender balance and the skills required to deliver on his renewed mandate.