By OLIVER SAMBOKO
AN independent candidate, Zindaba Soko has thrown his weight behind President Edgar Lungu vowing to campaign for him in the August 12 elections.
Mr Soko, who is contesting the Chipata Central parliamentary candidate is only the second independent candidate to declare allegiance to President Lungu after Petauke Central parliamentary contestant, Emmanuel Jay Jay Banda.
Mr Soko said in an interview that he would ensure the whole Chipata turns out for the President, whom he described as a democratic leader with a clear vision of developing the country.
He said even though he was disappointed at not being picked, he would ensure that his message of hope is focused on President Lungu because of his commitment to infrastructure development and socio economic well-being of all citizens.
Mr Soko said agriculture and production in all its forms must flourish and make the city an industrial hub.
He said the message of continuity for the President was important because people wanted improvements in their communities.
In terms of infrastructure development, a firm foundation has already been set by the President and my role is to ensure that we build on that.
An effective member of Parliament is what Chipata Central constituency needs and I am the right person to take that mantle.
He said having spent some years in local communities within Chipata Central canvassing for support, he had come to realise that the people are more focused on getting a determined and result-oriented representative in Parliament, an action oriented person, to get things done.
He said, it was surprising that despite being bestowed with city status, Chipata had not gained much from this.
He said once elected, he would make this one of his priorities, to ensure Chipata becomes a real city with all the necessary infrastructure.
