As Zambia prepares to commemorate its 59th Independence Anniversary, prominent good governance activist Gershom Phiri has delivered a stark caution to politicians, urging them to resist the temptation of accumulating public wealth at the expense of the suffering Zambian populace.
Mr. Phiri’s impassioned plea challenges the nation’s political leaders to emulate the unwavering selflessness displayed by the country’s freedom fighters during the liberation struggle and its aftermath. The activist firmly believes that current-day politicians must steer away from enriching themselves with public resources.
In a powerful observation, Phiri drew comparisons between contemporary politicians and their predecessors, spanning across different political eras. He noted that historical leaders, from the United National Independence Party (UNIP) compared to those of the Movement for Multi-party Democracy (MMD),the Patriotic Front (PF) and United Party for National Development (UPND) governments, were primarily driven by a commitment to serve the people and foster economic independence among citizens.
The activist articulated the worrying sense of self-interest displayed by many present-day politicians. He expressed concern that their motivations not only revolve around the accumulation of public wealth but also encompass the desire to monopolize political and democratic rights. Phiri observed that some politicians harbor a possessive attitude towards their roles, preventing others within their constituencies from aspiring to take up parliamentary seats.
Mr. Phiri emphasized that, 59 years post-independence, it is crucial for Zambians to actively participate in the ongoing transformation and advancement of their nation. He called on citizens to engage in a deep reflection, not only regarding the country’s current state but also to consider where Zambia should be and what needs to be achieved in the future.
The activist’s sentiments echo a wider call for political leaders to prioritize the well-being of their constituents and adopt a selfless approach to governance, aligning with the values and sacrifices made by Zambia’s revered freedom fighters.
As Zambia prepares to celebrate another year of independence, these reflections challenge the nation’s political landscape to uphold the principles of unity, democracy, and prosperity that have defined the country’s journey since its independence in 1964.
Those were the days when being a politician meant exhibiting integrity. The late Kangwa Nsuluka’s residence in Kankoyo, Mufulira is testimony to the type of people who held high offices!
Just like bu Papa, politics is big business
Politicans now days ?? Really does this not go back to the slave trade
when chiefs sold us ??
some dont read history
Which political party did the same chiefs belong too ,the key word is politicians
God bless Zambia
Comments on 2 recent events: (1) A visit by General Obasanjo to former President ECL home; and (2) recent sentiments raised by Dr. Vernon Mwaanga. (A) Obasanjo is Chairman of the Brenthurst Foundation by virtue of being trained as a soldier. What impact was Obasanjo assessing when he paid a courtesy call on ECL’s home? Will the Brenthurst Foundation review its strategies as it serves the interests of western powers? (B) Dr. Mwaanga is diplomatically reminding Zambians that Amusaa Mwanamwambwa and Rupiah Banda were his juniors who later rose to positions of Speaker of Parliament and Republican President respectively. Mwaanga’s wisdom means that humble persons can also rise to important national positions. Interesting events.
Don’t say politicians of nowadays. Can you be specific and say politicians like hh who amassed wealth by undervaluing our state assets for kickbacks during privatisation. Sata ny o ko
Sorry ECL and THE PF
Again, @Kaizar Zulu watsegula pakamwa pake ponyansa. He doesn’t make sense because he’s nonsensical. He has no recollection of his poor memory. He has forgotten completely that he amassed his little money my milking state wallet. What a shame!
You are both smelly dogs
Any system that elevates a mortal to a position of limitless political power is the root of all social evils.
But you Kaizar Zulu. How did you amass wealth? We all know that HH lies by saying that he started only with 1 cow. Then his former comrade in stealing GBF announced that he amassed wealth by selling 1 bag of maize. Then another crook Chishimba Kambwili must have amassed wealth through stealing scrap metals. Another pathological liar Lusambo is said tonale amassed wealth through mines said to have been owned by his father. All liars. These are the characters now ruling Zambia. People tend to steal.Become rich and the into politics. Simply because Zambians admire rich people with money. Not their ideologies.
Did you not see me working all those years in the highest office of the land? If you are too f00lish to not invest when in employment you will continue asking how I became a millionaire in dollars. Lazy f00Is!
Started with Chiluba. He showed everyone how to get rich once in power.
There’s nothing new. How did politicians such as Dingiswayo Banda and Sikota Wina end up while in government office? Don’t distort history.
Dint forget Enoch Kavindele and Francis Kunda
millionaire in dollars. kikikiki
SOME POVERTY-STRICKEN POLITICIANS ARE A PROBLEM ALSO.
IMMEDIATELY THEY ARE IN POWER THEY WANT TO AMASS WEALTH
SOME RICH POLILITICIANS WANT TO GET RICHER
THE ISSUE THEN IS TO LOOK FOR THAT RARE SPECIES:
MEN AND WOMEN OF INTEGRITY TO REPRESENT THE POPULACE.
THAT HAS BEEN THE QUEST SINCE ANTIQUITY.
EVEN OUR CHIEFS HAVE SOLD THEIR SUBJECTS INTO SLAVERY FOR GUNS, BEADS AND EVEN MIRRORS!