Senior Chief Ishindi of the Lunda people of Zambezi district in Northwestern province has appealed to government to come up with a legal framework that would enable them take part in the governance system of the country.
Chief Ishindi said even though traditional leaders have a say in the affairs of the country, there should be a legal backing given to them especially on matters of resources in their chiefdoms.
He was speaking during a meeting with the new Northwestern province minister Daniel Kalenga in Solwezi yesterday.
He said noted that there was no chief representation in the governance system at any level, adding that their contribution was important.
The traditional leader expressed sadness that there was no chief sitting on the national petroleum board, which is looking into the issue of oil exploration in three districts of the province.
Meanwhile, Chief Ishindi has said people had blown the issues of wrangles between the Lunda and Luvale tribes out of proportion.
He said the picture was so negative that it seemed as though there is total chaos between the two tribes when in fact not.
The senior chief wondered why tribal wrangles in Zambezi are top on the agenda when in fact these exist even in other districts and provinces in the country.
He called on government to identify the problem and find solution to the wrangles as it has done in other chiefdoms.
ZANIS
I think it is a sensible suggestion. The legal framework should be clearly defined so that the Chiefs know their political boundaries and hold their corners…bloggers what do you think?
Wise words. Hope teh GRZ listens and acts on this.
There used to be a House of Chiefs. Is it still there. May be it was in another country, I could be wrong. Sorry.