TRIBALISM WORRIES SACCORD

By Kalobwe Bwalya

POLITICIANS should desist from expressing tribal sentiments for personal gain and instead advocate for inclusivity, understanding, and harmony among all Zambians, the Southern African Centre for Constructive Resolution of Disputes (SACCORD) has said.

SACCORD Executive Director Authur Muyunda has observed that tribal talks among politicians had become a structural issue which if not addressed sooner than later, had the potential to cause conflict.

In an interview, Mr. Muyunda explained that there was no single politician in the country who should lie to themselves that only their tribesmen voted for them.

 He stated that every corner of Zambia had at least people from other tribes who voted for their preferred candidates.

“With this that is happening in the country, as SACCORD, we now appeal to Zambians to start thinking about establishing a well-recognised peace infrastructure which can be used to deal with such things. Tribal talk among politicians has become a structural issue which if not addressed has the potential to cause conflict,” said Mr. Muyunda.

 He added that as a country, there was a need to think ahead and deal with the issue once and for all as it would bring endless conflicts among people in the society adding that SACCORD had always emphasized on the critical importance of unity and peace in Zambia.

He said citizens should always remember that unity among the people of Zambia was crucial for progress, development and stability of the country and that should be embraced always.

He advised politicians to desist from issuing tribal talks as it was divisive, harmful and could lead to nothing, but increased tensions, conflict and ultimately hampering the nation’s growth and prosperity.

“We understand very well the dangers of advancing tribal sentiments to either gain sympathy or support. Therefore, politicians should always refrain from making tribal remarks and we all

 know that this is a very deadly recipe for conflict and tribal conflict. Once it erupts it may be a challenge to quench,” he stated.