Dear Editor,
I FOUND Bernard Chisanga’s letter in Monday’s edition “To defect or not to defect,” interesting.
Bernard was very candid in his description of this phenomenon which has befallen our young democracy.
The problem with defectors, especially the loudest ones, is that in truth they stand for nothing, for no values or true beliefs.
In our dispensation, the defectors or deserters, only pursue personal gratification. They have nothing else to add to their so-called new parties. They are a bad example to the young political generation and they should be treated with great suspicion.
Another sad aspect of this defection syndrome is the pomp which goes with receiving defectors on the other side of the political divide. They are lined up as heroes when not.
They share the podium with senior members of their newly adopted parties just for orchestrated publicity and then disappear into oblivion.
Usually these are frustrated individuals who for one reason or other find themselves on the outside and then they seek solace in the next available party.
Parties that are strong and confident should not be in the forefront attracting such shady characters. Let them join quietly if they are genuine and give them publicity only for achieving real things for their new parties.
When translated on the bigger national stage, I wouldn’t agree more with Bernard that to promote and be seen to encourage this culture of defections is to open our doors to corrupt, vindictive and irresponsible individuals into leadership.
Let us promote values that reflect our aspirations as a nation. Hats off to those who have not been adopted by their political parties but have vowed to remain loyal and productive members.
T. MUKELABAI.
