The Paradox of Punishing Tribalism Criticism: Strengthening Tribal Divisions!

“Making the condemnation of tribalism a crime doesn’t combat tribalism; it’s designed to safeguard the gains from tribal practices! Only by confronting the underlying tribal behaviours can we eliminate tribal discourse and promote national unity!” – Dr. M’membe.

By Mpandashalo Mwewa.

Lusaka, June 12 – During a recent television appearance, Dr. Fred M’membe, leader of the Socialist Party, addressed the pressing issue of tribalism in present-day Zambia. Amidst his discussion on the concerning surge of tribalism and its impacts on societal dynamics, Dr. M’membe highlighted the decision by the current administration to criminalize the condemnation of tribalism.

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Dr. M’membe emphasized that restricting discussions that acknowledge the existence of tribalism aims to hinder people from recognizing the true beneficiaries tribalism. He likened it to addressing a fire by targeting the resulting smoke instead of its root causes.

Combating tribalism, he emphasised, requires tackling its core issues, such as job distributions in the public sector. Dr. M’membe highlightsled the troubling makeup of government institutions, underscoring how tribalism has influenced job allocation in critical sectors.

This trend has not only widened rifts but has also impeded equitable opportunities for individuals of various backgrounds based on merit. Addressing the fundamental issues of tribalism will effectively extinguish its present form: the tribal discourse that has afflicted our nation.

Dr. M’membe further denounced the new dawn administration, labeling it as a significant promoter of tribalism. Despite publicly condemning tribalism, it has actively been participating in divisive actions that exacerbate our nation’s polarisation. Such hypocrisy has not only inflicted harm but has also established a perilous example for generations to come.

Tribalism is evidently deeply entrenched and cannot be ignored. Therefore, Dr. M’membe strongly advocates for holding the new dawn administration accountable for perpetuating tribalism, along with implementing measures to tackle its underlying causes. Addressing these foundational tribal practices is essential to eliminating the current tribal discourse and fostering greater unity in Zambia.

Dr. M’membe’s insights on tribalism should rouse individuals at every level of our society to confront this issue. Simply condemning tribal discourse isn’t enough; we must actively dismantle divisive tribal practices. By tackling the root causes of tribalism, we can eliminate the resulting discourse that has plagued our nation.

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In conclusion, Let’s recognize the true destructiveness of tribalism and understand the pressing need for collective action to confront this divisive force. Each of us must challenge tribal practices, champion unity, and work towards a society where differences are embraced rather than exploited for political ends.

Only someone with tribalist tendencies would criminalize the condemnation of tribalism. We must acknowledge the existence of tribalism to take the crucial first step towards eliminating this vice.

About The Author: Mpandashalo Mwewa holds the position of Chief Editor at Woodpecker’s Digest, having previously served in the same position at Zambia Reports. As a Pan-African advocate for education reforms emphasizing critical thinking, Mpandashalo utilizes journalism as a means to drive social change.

About Our Advocacy: Woodpecker’s Digest is an online platform that delivers news analyses and commentaries on pertinent issues of national interest, along with articles on personal development and health. Journalism stands as a powerful instrument for driving positive socio-economic transformation!