‘NO EARLY ELECTIONS’

By Kalobwe Bwalya

PEOPLE should not be misled by one individual who is being followed by a group calling for a regime change, said Frank Bwalya, Director General of the Media and Presidential Support Programme.

In an interview, Fr. Bwalya stated there was no need for former President Edgar Lungu to call for early elections when President Hakainde Hichilema was fulfilling his campaign promises.

Fr. Bwalya emphasized that Mr. Lungu must remember that Zambia has a constitution that prescribes and guides when general elections should be held.

Fr. Bwalya noted that unchecked calls from the former president might cause anarchy in the country, especially among people who might take Mr. Lungu seriously.

He explained that President Hichilema, upon taking office, ensured the restoration of peace and stability, which every Zambian is now enjoying.

“President Hichilema has managed to restore sanity and order in public places such as bus stations and markets, as cadres are no longer present. The President further paid off all retirees who retired years back and ensured that local authorities, like Kitwe City Council, paid off all arrears owed to workers. Additionally, he reinstated meal allowances for students in higher learning institutions, including the University of Zambia (UNZA).

“Mopani Copper Mines also cleared its dues to the mines and other institutions that owed money to their workers. So, I see no reason why Mr. Lungu should call for a regime change when he failed to address these issues as President. President Hichilema is working tirelessly to fulfil all his promises so that in 2026 he can continue his developmental agenda,” said Fr. Bwalya.

Fr. Bwalya added that the people of Zambia were praying for President Hichilema’s good health so that he could continue delivering on his developmental agenda.

He observed that previously, cadres had the power to harass people, beat public personnel, and steal from the public because that was how the ‘PF party’ operated.

“The issue of cadreism is long gone. People are now free to conduct their daily business without any interruption from cadres. Therefore, calls for early elections from the PF are unfounded and baseless,” he said.