EXPECTATIONS HIGH AS PRESIDENT HICHILEMA ADDRESSES THE NATION ON APPLICATION OF NATIONAL VALUES AND PRINCIPLES TODAY

 

President Hakainde Hichilema is set to address parliament this morning on the progress made in the application of Zambia’s national values and principles as required by article 9 (2) of the constitution.

Various stakeholders have shared their expectations, with Governance Activist Archie Mulunda, saying President Hakainde Hichilema’s address today is a crucial moment to reaffirm the fight against corruption, particularly among those in public office.

Mr Mulunda is also hopeful that the head of state will provide clear direction for the country following the suspension of USAID funding to Zambia.

And Energy Expert Boniface Zulu expects President Hichilema to tackle the pressing energy crisis, load-shedding, and funding of alternative power sources, while updating the nation on the stability of supply, and cost of petroleum products.

Meanwhile, Democratic Governance and Human Rights Advocates -DEGHA National Coordinator, Gerald Mutelo expects President Hichilema to tackle the concerns raised by un special rapporteur on human rights and freedom of expression, Ireen Khan, particularly with Zambia’s elections looming next year.

Mr. Mutelo says the President’s address should provide clarity on how his administration plans to address these concerns and ensure a free and fair election process.

However, Green Party Leader Peter Sinkamba has expressed skepticism about the president’s upcoming address, stating that the people's pact expects little to be reported, given the deteriorating human rights situation and Zambia’s declining international image since the last report.

Some of the key national values and principles that the President is expected to address include morality and ethics, patriotism and national unity, democracy and constitutionalism, and human dignity, equity, social justice, equality, and non-discrimination.