Zambian politics has become a theater of rhetoric, drowning out the solutions desperately needed to tackle socio-economic challenges. It’s time for leaders to stop prioritizing party loyalty and political theatrics, and instead focus on transforming politics into a platform for actionable answers that uplift the nation.
By Moffat Nyangu.
Lusaka, Dec. 21 – Zambian politics has been hijacked by a dangerous misconception: that elected representatives – whether Members of Parliament or Councillors – must prioritize party loyalty over the urgent need to address the country’s socio-economic challenges. This ideology undermines the very essence of public service, which is to solve problems and uplift the lives of ordinary citizens. Instead of engaging in meaningful debates about policies and solutions, the political landscape has devolved into a battlefield for party supremacy, leaving critical national issues unattended.
Also Read: Opposition Leadership: For the People, Not at Their Expense. Examining Dr. Chitalu Chilufya’s call for political leadership that champions dialogue and service for the nation, rather than one using the struggles of ordinary Zambians for self serving political ambitions.
Opposition politics, in particular, has failed to rise above this mediocrity. It should not merely be a platform for relentless criticism of the ruling government; rather, it must present itself as an alternative government. This means offering verifiable and practical solutions to the myriad issues citizens face daily, from unemployment to failing healthcare systems. Constructive opposition entails proposing actionable strategies that can be implemented both now and in the future, showcasing readiness to govern rather than merely to oppose.
The 2021 general election serves as a cautionary tale for Zambia. President Hakainde Hichilema’s UPND rode to victory on the back of vague promises and relentless criticism of the Patriotic Front (PF) government, without presenting clear, actionable solutions. This approach, while politically expedient, has left the country in a worse socio-economic situation than before. It is a reminder that removing a government, without ensuring the incoming one has the capacity and vision to govern effectively, is not a recipe for progress.
Zambia must reject the politics of criticism for its own sake. The opposition must move beyond simplistic narratives aimed at discrediting the government and instead work to demonstrate how they would govern differently. Constructive politics demands policy depth, innovative solutions, and a commitment to addressing the root causes of Zambia’s socio-economic problems. Helping another political party ascend to power without these guarantees is a hollow pursuit that risks perpetuating the cycle of underdevelopment.
Also Read: Prescription for Progress: Zambia’s Policy Cure Lies with Dr. Chitalu Chilufya! Dr. Chitalu Chilufya, the former Minister of Health, has been honored with the prestigious Zambia Medical Association (ZMA) Lifetime Achievement Award for 2024. Zambia’s ailing development needs policies that put its people first, not foreign interests.
Ultimately, Zambian politics must transform into a space for answers, not rhetoric. The electorate should demand more from their leaders, scrutinizing not just their criticisms of rivals but also their proposed policies and track records of implementing solutions. Until politics is redefined as a vehicle for socio-economic transformation, Zambia risks stagnating in a quagmire of blame games and unfulfilled promises. The nation deserves better than leaders who prioritize political theatrics over the real work of national development.
About The Author: Mr. Moffat Nyangu holds a Master of Arts in Political Science in the School of Economic, Political, and Policy Sciences from the Arizona State University (Carey). He also holds qualifications in Journalism and International Relations.
About Our Advocacy: Woodpecker’s Digest provides in-depth analyses and commentary on issues of national importance, alongside articles on personal development and health. We believe journalism can be a force for socio-economic change.
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