Bemba chiefs are happy with Lungu

Tue, 30 Jan 2018 16:58:17 +0000

…Mwaliteta daydreaming

By AARON CHIYANZO

TRADITIONAL leaders are enjoying a cordial relationship with the Head of State and government, contrary to wishful thinking by the UPND, chief Luchembe of Mpika has said.

UPND Lusaka Province chairman, Obvious Mwaliteta reportedly claimed that President Edgar Lungu had neglected chiefs and only brought them closer during election campaigns.

But Chief Luchembe reiterated that Mr Mwaliteta’s sentiments were baseless and bordered on wishful thinking.

He said that contrary to the opposition official, traditional leaders were enjoying a cordial relationship with the Head of State and government.

Chief Luchembe explained that there was no way the President could go back to campaign mode, visiting the way he used to during election period when he was busy in office.

He however pointed out that President Lungu always found time to meet traditional leaders during his tour of duty and was receptive to chiefs when called on.

Chief Luchembe challenged Mr Mwaliteta to substantiate his claims by pointing out traditional leaders who had been neglected by the Head of State.

“We chiefs work with the government of the day. During campaigns, any leader even the same UPND go out there to gunning up supporters. So after the elections the party that wins starts working to fulfill promises, now how do you expect him to go back to campaigning, visiting the way he used to?” he questioned.

The chief said that President Lungu still had time for traditional leaders even if it was not time for election campaigns.

Chief Luchembe pointed out that President Lungu recently met with traditional leaders in Muchinga province during his official tour of the province.