PF stalwart, Mwamba, AIPAC , slam UPND ministers for abandoning parliamentary debate on high cost of living

Former Ambassador to Ethiopia, Emmanuel Mwamba, has called for the dismissal of the United Party for National Development (UPND) Chief Whip and a reprimand of all ministers who walked out of Parliament during a debate on the high cost of living.

Mwamba, who serves as the Patriotic Front (PF) faction Chairperson for Information and Publicity, criticized the walkout, describing it as a failed strategy aimed at collapsing quorum.

In a statement issued Thursday, he said the move demonstrated poor leadership and an inability to engage on critical national issues.

“The walkout was the worst strategy for any ruling party in a parliamentary democracy, especially on a motion addressing the high cost of living, which has severely affected Zambians and businesses. This was an opportunity for government to explain the country’s challenges,” Mwamba said.

He urged President Hakainde Hichilema to immediately dismiss the Chief Whip and publicly reprimand ministers who abandoned the debate.

Mwamba also demanded an explanation from the President regarding rising inflation, the volatile Kwacha, and soaring prices of essential goods, including mealie-meal, fuel, and cooking oil.

Similarly, the Acton Institute for Policy Analysis Centre (AIPAC) condemned the ministers’ conduct, calling it unacceptable.

AIPAC Executive Director, Solomon Ngoma, said the incident underscored the need for a new team of MPs and ministers committed to serving the people rather than their own interests.

Ngoma demanded an apology from the ruling party, arguing that Cabinet ministers and UPND lawmakers should demonstrate leadership and address the economic crisis.

“Their actions suggest they are either unwilling or incapable of tackling the challenges facing millions of Zambians. The walkout was an abdication of their responsibility to provide solutions,” Ngoma said.

He urged President Hichilema to consider a Cabinet reshuffle, warning that the incident could signal deeper issues within the ruling party and raise concerns about its commitment to democratic principles and governance.

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