Last week's commentaries by key political players

The PF in 10 years left behind a US$26.9bn debt stock but now we are sitting on US$32.8bn. In other words, after being in government for just over a year, UPND have borrowed about US$6bn.

Lusaka, June 26th – We look at what made headlines at the close of last week as we prepare you for our political analyses and commentaries for this week.

◾Saboi Imboela on cadres being ferried to welcome President Hichilema at the airport.

“In International Law, countries like Zambia are still regarded as uncivilised states. I always get annoyed with that clasification until I see things like this (see attached photo).

So civilised countries are looking at us and laughing their lungs out. And UPND has not only heightened our levels of uncivilisation, but with their high levels of human rights abuses, disregarding institutions of democracy, breakdown of the rule of law, they may leave Zambia as a Banana Republic if left unchecked.

I’m so ashamed and speechless to look at this. Hichilema’s love of being praised is now being institutionalised. What a shame, what a tragedy! Even KK left out children out of such nonsense. God help us!”

Also Read: Police brutality negatively impacting Zambia’s human rights record.

◾Hon. Bowman Lusambo on British High Commissioner, Woolley’s deep concerns about abductions of opposition leaders.

“Held very fruitful discussions with the UK High Commissioner to Zambia @nkwoolley. Discussed some wide ranging issues around the political environment in Zambia and the shrinking democratic space. Heartening to hear his deep concerns over abductions and harassment of opposition leaders.”

◾Chiengi MP, Hon. Given Katuta Mwelwa, on Zambia’s debt

“I have just checked on the Ministry of Finance website! Pardon me, actually the public debt stock was last updated on the 29th March of 2023. The PF in 10 years left behind US$26.9bn for both external and internal debt stock and now we are sitting on US$32.8bn. In other words, the UPND government, after being in government for just over a year, has borrowed about US$6bn.”

◾Dr. Fred M’membe on Hichilema being clearly disturbed by the US revelations of deplorable Zambia’s human rights record under the new dawn government.

“From the recent response by acting Minister of Information Mr. Chikote, who jumped to the defence of their illegal acts, bare denials, it is clear Mr. @HHichilema seems disturbed by the revelations made by his friends, the US, on the deplorable state of human rights practices in Zambia.”

You can now follow Woodpecker’s Digest on Twitter and Facebook!