COPPERBELT YOUTH ENTREPRENEUR CONDEMNS TRIBALISM AND DEROGATORY ATTACKS AGAINST PRESIDENT HICHILEMA

A Copperbelt-based youth entrepreneur, Mr Gift Kapembwa, has condemned what he describes as the continued use of derogatory and insulting language against President Hakainde Hichilema by some opposition political figures and their supporters. Mr Kapembwa says the persistent disparagement of the Head of State is not only regrettable but undermines the dignity of the Office […]

A Copperbelt-based youth entrepreneur, Mr Gift Kapembwa, has condemned what he describes as the continued use of derogatory and insulting language against President Hakainde Hichilema by some opposition political figures and their supporters.

Mr Kapembwa says the persistent disparagement of the Head of State is not only regrettable but undermines the dignity of the Office of the President and the standards of responsible public discourse expected in a democratic society.

He has particularly expressed concern over individuals, including some Zambians in the diaspora, who he says have increasingly resorted to insults and inflammatory rhetoric instead of providing constructive criticism and serving as voices of reason.

“The President is not only a leader of UPND members or its supporters; he is the President of the Republic of Zambia and, therefore, the Head of State for all Zambians. Regardless of our political affiliations, we have a responsibility to respect the Office of the President while constructively engaging on national issues and supporting efforts aimed at advancing Zambia’s socio-economic development,” Mr Kapembwa said.

Mr Kapembwa has also strongly condemned the growing tendency to view national issues through the lens of tribalism and regionalism, saying such sentiments have no place in a united and progressive Zambia.

He has dismissed assertions that appointments made by President Hichilema are necessarily driven by tribal considerations, arguing that the focus should instead be on the competence, integrity and qualifications of individuals appointed to public office.

“Having one or two people from the same tribe serving in government does not, by itself, constitute tribalism. What should matter is whether those appointed are Zambians who are qualified, competent and capable of delivering on the responsibilities entrusted to them,” he said.

Mr Kapembwa has urged Zambians to reject tribal narratives and instead promote national unity, peaceful coexistence and equal opportunities for citizens regardless of their province, tribe or political affiliation.

Meanwhile, Mr Kapembwa has called on members of the public to exercise restraint and allow law enforcement agencies to conclude their investigations into circumstances surrounding the death of former Minister of Transport, Mr Mutotwe Kafwaya.

He says it is premature and irresponsible for individuals to make definitive pronouncements or attribute responsibility to particular persons before the relevant authorities have completed their investigations and the due process of law has taken its course.

“Zambians should allow law enforcement agencies to do their work and await the outcome of the investigations. It is irresponsible to make uninformed allegations or link the matter to President Hakainde Hichilema without evidence or the conclusion of due process,” Mr Kapembwa said.

He has further urged Zambians, political leaders and public commentators to exercise responsibility in their public statements, saying national unity, respect for the rule of law and constructive dialogue must remain at the centre of Zambia’s democratic discourse.