Without purpose-driven leadership, Zambia’s youth risk becoming mere political pawns, recycling the same failures they claim to oppose.
By Mpandashalo Mwewa.
Lusaka, Mar. 27 – Hon. Given Katuta Mwelwa’s call for youths to engage in meaningful debate about Zambia’s socio-economic challenges was met with hostility from politically inclined youths who saw her message as an attempt to sideline them. Yet, it has taken little time for reality to vindicate her stance – our youth lack political focus, direction, and, most importantly, purpose.
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Take the ongoing drama surrounding staunch UPND cadre Frank Zimba, also known as Fimba Upoke. His decision to speak out on the dire state of mining operations on the Copperbelt, particularly the failure of International Resources Holding (IRH) at Mopani Copper Mines, should have been commended. Instead, UPND youths turned on him, accusing him – without evidence – of being in bed with the opposition Tonse Alliance. This knee-jerk reaction exposes a tragic flaw in the political consciousness of today’s youth: blind loyalty over critical thinking.
The real question is, if these same youths were entrusted with leadership, would they bring value to the country? Leadership is not about occupying a position but about having a vision and the ability to effect positive change. Yet, what have we seen from young leaders in this government? Pilato, once a vocal critic of oppression, now enjoys the comforts of his Permanent Secretary position while remaining conspicuously silent on human rights abuses. What value has he added? None.
This is the dangerous cycle Hon. Katuta Mwelwa warned against – youths clamoring for power, not to serve but to replace the very system they once opposed with their own brand of political inertia. If we don’t demand a new breed of purposeful young leaders, Zambia will continue recycling the same empty suits, only this time in younger bodies.
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The call to action is clear: Zambia’s youth must rise beyond partisan bickering and personal political gain. They must champion real solutions, demand accountability, and think beyond political patronage. Otherwise, the country risks handing over power to another generation of clueless opportunists – much like the one that gave us Hakainde Hichilema.
About The Author: Mpandashalo Mwewa, currently the Chief Editor at Woodpecker’s Digest, formerly held the same role at Zambia Reports. Known for championing Pan-African education reforms with a focus on critical thinking, he employs journalism to instigate social transformation.
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