Mr. Hichilema’s lack of understanding regarding the procurement of the military package, which included the Gulfstream G650 presidential jet, prompted him to politicize the process for personal gain. Now, he faces the consequences of reality.
Lusaka, June 14 – Numerous Zambians are pleased to witness Malawi showing appreciation on social media after the Zambia Air Force assisted in transporting the bodies of the victims of the plane crash that tragically took the life of their vice president: “Zambia, thank you for your support. Malawians, let’s demonstrate our appreciation to Zambia, our reliable neighbour, for its steadfast assistance!”
Yet, the new dawn government is concealing what you should know, while endorsing President Hichilema’s narrative regarding the Gulfstream G650 presidential jet, which initially cost $65 million before military defense enhancements were added.
Also Read: “There is only one good – Knowledge, and one evil – Ignorance!” – Socrates.
Acquiring knowledge empowers us to pursue the ultimate goal in life: fostering virtue, allowing us to contribute positively to society and master our own desires.
In 2018, the Patriotic Front government secured a $400 million loan from Israel’s Hapoalim Bank to finance a military package consisting of advanced aviation equipment, which encompassed the Gulfstream G650 presidential jet.
The loan also covered the renovation of Maina Soko Military Hospital, the upgrading of helicopters by Sukhoi of Russia, and the purchase of unmanned aerial vehicles (drones).
Moreover, it included the acquisition of two C-27J Spartan tactical transport aircraft from Leonardo Aerospace Company of Italy, which President Hichilema employed to ferry over 50 tonnes of cargo from Waterkloof Air Force Base in Pretoria to Mozambique, alongside other tasks assigned by SAMIM.
As an opposition leader, Mr. Hichilema’s lack of understanding regarding this military procurement package prompted him to politicize the acquisition of the Gulfstream G650 presidential jet.
In an attempt to validate his false claims about the alleged fraud surrounding the jet, he has chosen not to utilize it. However, the question remains: how long will he withhold the truth? Furthermore, why does he find it acceptable to use the other products of the $400 million loan from Hapoalim Bank?
Alternatively, you might question whether President Edgar Lungu misused his authority by utilizing a military budget to obtain the aforementioned presidential jet.
However, according to the Constitution of the Republic of Zambia, the Zambia Airforce (ZAF) is mandated to supply air support and uphold the highest standards of aviation security for the President and all duly authorized government officials utilizing state air assets.
In fulfilling this demanding constitutional obligation, the Zambia Airforce initiated a program in 2012, well before Mr. Lungu assumed the presidency, to replace its aging fleet of transport and fighter aircraft, along with other related air defense equipment.
By the conclusion of 2018, ZAF received the Gulfstream G650 (AF001) designated for the President’s use. The controversy and uproar surrounding this transaction within the country stemmed solely from a lack of understanding regarding the travel safety protocol of the Head of State in Zambia.
Also Read: 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.
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