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The Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) party says President Hakainde Hichilema is discouraging investors with his alarming comments on electricity crisis.
In a recent address, the President disclosed an impending electricity shortage, projecting a deficit of 450 to possibly above 500 megawatts.
In a statement, EFF party leader, Kasonde Mwenda, said the revelation had set off a domino effect, scaring away potential investors crucial for Zambia’s economic growth.
Mwenda stated that this deficit can easily be bridged with minimal import of electricity which was nothing new to Zambia.
“It is regrettable that instead of projecting strength and assuring investors, President Hichilema has chosen an alarmist approach, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty that repels those considering investments in Zambia,” he said.
Mwenda added that rather than highlighting challenges, a true leader would diplomatically assure investors of energy security.
He stated that the Head of State should have emphasized existing agreements for electricity imports to mitigate potential shortages.
“The President’s announcement, coupled with plans to ration electricity due to drought, has garnered international attention, casting Zambia in an unfavorable light,” Mwenda said.
He noted that almost all major international media outlets had echoed the alarm sounded by President Hichilema on February 29, 2024.
Mwenda appealed to the President to demonstrate leadership during this challenging period by fostering sincerity, transparency and instilling hope through innovative solutions.
“Zambia possesses the capabilities to overcome the drought crisis, worsened by the current government’s mismanagement of maize reserves, recklessly depleted since assuming power in 2021,” he said.
Mwenda urged President Hichilema to rise above deceptive propaganda and work collaboratively with stakeholders to address the challenges effectively.
He stated that the nation deserved a leader who not only identifies problems but actively engages in finding viable solutions for the prosperity of the people and the advancement of Zambia’s economic landscape.
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