The opposition United Party for National Development campaign team has moved to extricate itself from the damaging tribal sentiments uttered by veteran politician Daniel Munkombwe at their Choma rally.
Munkombwe, who is a minister in the ruling Patriotic Front government, told the rally that it was time for someone from Southern Province to rule – a remark that has not gone down well with some political followers and possible voters.
While UPND publicly denies its deeply rooted tribal affiliation, it is no secret that it promotes and believes only a Tonga should lead their organisation.
Below is the statement from the UPND campaign team:
Statement from Dipak Patel, UPND Campaign Manager:
We wish to disassociate ourselves completely from comments made at the Choma rally yesterday by PF Southern Province Minister Daniel Munkombwe.
Any appeal he made to voters based on tribe is rejected by our campaign completely.
The foundation of our message has always been one of national unity, inclusiveness and equality. This is without exception.
We also stand in direct opposition to past remarks of Mr Munkonbwe who has been reported as saying “politicians go into government to eat”. This is in direct contrast to our position.
Indeed, the selfishness and poor quality leadership of politicians in the past is what has held Zambia back from reaching its potential; it is the reason why our people remain in poverty even though there is so much natural wealth within our borders.
We are encouraging Zambians to vote for Mr Hichilema because of his desire to serve all Zambians, his track record as an economic manager and successful farmer, his Christian values and his opposition to tribal and panga politics.
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