Tribalism is irritating-Zulu

By Kalobwe Bwalya

THE levels of intolerance, violence, tribalism and hate speech are slowly taking centre stage and if not curtailed, can lead to anarchy and tension in the country, governance activist Sam Zulu has observed.

Mr. Zulu said it was unfortunate that most of these situations were being promoted by politicians who did not even care about the welfare of their people.

He said such should not be allowed because it could bring tension in the country.

In an interview, Mr. Zulu recollects that it was exactly 15 years ago when he was assaulted and abducted by the Patriotic Front for defending democracy from while he was addressing the media at Court Yard hotel in Lusaka.

“Since that barbaric incident which was sponsored by the Patriotic Front, more people have faced similar situations as this culture of intolerance continues to grow in our nation. Therefore, I am appealing to all relevant stakeholders to address this ugly trend before it escalates to unmanageable levels, ” said Mr. Zulu.

And Mr. Zulu stated that there was a need to maintain the peace that the country has been enjoying 60 years after political independence.

Further, he appealed to the Government to consider installing the culture of democratic principles and human rights in the Zambian curriculum.

He added that a country could only gain the benefits of diversity with tolerance and that people with divergent views must be respected, valued, and listened to.

He said the Government must also consider banning the wearing of political regalia especially in public places such as schools, traditional ceremonies, places of worship and many others.

He said public functions must also ensure that political party regalia were not entertained as it stirred up trouble with rival gangs and increased unnecessary tension in the country.

“As a result, we are seeing a lot of violence towards people from certain groups which unfortunately should not be happening and therefore, I appeal to all citizens to respect different opinions if the country is to prosper,” he said.