Hichilema warns ministers with ‘long fingers’ to resign or face legal action

President Hakainde Hichilema has issued a stern warning to government ministers, civil servants and officials with corrupt intentions, urging them to resign before the law catches up with them.

The president emphasized that his administration would not tolerate theft of public funds, as seen in previous governments.

Speaking at the Sam Lya Momba traditional ceremony in Namwala on Sunday, President Hichilema condemned the actions of those who, over the past decade, enriched themselves at the expense of ordinary Zambians.

He vowed that his government would recover stolen resources and redirect them to benefit the public.

“The country needs discipline. Zambian money should work for the people, not go into a few pockets,” Hichilema said.

He added that recovering stolen assets serves as a warning to current officials not to engage in corrupt activities, as the law will apply equally to everyone, inside or outside government.

“It’s a lesson to all of us. If you have long fingers, you are on your own. Ministers, Members of Parliament, council chairpersons, mayors, civil servants—if you’re involved in theft, resign now because the law will catch up with you,” he cautioned.

The president stressed that national resources should be used to support vital areas such as education, healthcare, and debt repayment.

He expressed surprise that individuals responsible for incurring the country’s massive debt were now criticizing the government’s performance.

“Do not steal from the government. Health workers pilfering medicine to sell in private pharmacies—your time is up. We will deal with you because you’re stealing taxpayers’ money,” Hichilema warned.

He also addressed concerns over the rising cost of Zambia National Service (ZNS) Eagle Mealie Meal, urging traders to maintain the recommended price of K230 and warning them against exploiting citizens during times of hunger by inflating prices.

“This is a year of hunger. The government has intervened by producing affordable mealie meal through the ZNS and correctional services. The Eagle Mealie Meal should not be sold for more than K230. Traders who ignore this should not complain when the law catches up with them,” he said.

President Hichilema encouraged Zambians to work hard and avoid dependence on handouts, warning against a return to a culture of laziness.

He also directed the Minister of Agriculture to ensure timely delivery of fertilizer and farming inputs, as had been done for traditional leaders.

The president also called on politicians to use traditional ceremonies as platforms for promoting unity, not division.

He underscored the importance of preserving the country’s heritage and values and documenting its history to educate future generations on Zambia’s journey to unity.

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