FRANK TALK In 2021, I voted for President Hakainde Hichilema without hesitation. I believed he represented a break from the past, a government founded on the rule of law, accountability, and an uncompromising fight against corruption. While I questioned whether every campaign promise could be delivered, I believed the values behind the campaign were worth […]

FRANK TALK

In 2021, I voted for President Hakainde Hichilema without hesitation. I believed he represented a break from the past, a government founded on the rule of law, accountability, and an uncompromising fight against corruption. While I questioned whether every campaign promise could be delivered, I believed the values behind the campaign were worth supporting.

To be fair, his government has delivered on some important commitments. Free education stands out, and as someone who benefited from Dr. Kenneth Kaunda’s vision for education, I appreciate that achievement. Thousands of jobs have also been created in the education and health sectors, and the economy has recorded positive indicators. However, those gains have not translated into lower prices for many households, and the high cost of living remains a daily reality for many Zambians.

My greatest concern is the reports that millions are owed to the Food Reserve Agency by individuals, including government and UPND officials, while many farmers are still waiting to be paid. The UPND Media Director, a young man I respect, said there is nothing inherently wrong with owing money. That may be true. But look at the amount being talked about. The real questions are whether those debts will be repaid, when they will be repaid, and whether the same standards are being applied to everyone.

This is bigger than politics. Every kwacha owed to a public institution belongs to the Zambian people. History has shown that when politically connected debts are ignored, public institutions suffer, and taxpayers carry the burden. Wrongdoing should never be defended because of political loyalty, and accountability should never depend on party affiliation.

I know these views will attract criticism, but I have no apologies for standing on principle. Corruption and abuse of public resources should be condemned wherever they occur, regardless of who is responsible.

It is unfair to label every PF member as corrupt, just as it is wrong to portray every UPND member as clean. Zambians deserve a debate focused on integrity, the cost of living, better jobs, stronger institutions, and improved living standards.