By 
Peoples Alliance for Change (PAC) leader, Andyford Banda, has criticised President Hakainde Hichilema’s recent reshuffle of provincial ministers and permanent secretaries, calling the changes “cosmetic” and ineffective in addressing Zambia’s economic challenges.
President Hichilema dismissed several key officials, including Joseph Akafumba as Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Henry Sikazwe as Muchinga Province Minister, Gregory Ngowani as Government Deputy Chief Whip, and Henry Mukungule as Muchinga Province Permanent Secretary.
“These changes are just cosmetic; they don’t address the real issues affecting Zambians. If the president wants meaningful change, he must focus on sectors that impact the economy and livelihoods,” Banda said in a statement on Sunday.
He argued that the dismissals would do little to resolve Zambia’s pressing economic struggles, including a sluggish economy, droughts, and a rising cost of living.
“The termination of contracts for provincial ministers and permanent secretaries has no significant effect on the economy, agriculture, or small businesses,” Banda said.
He pointed to Zambia’s economic slowdown, noting that GDP growth had declined to 1.9 percent in the first half of 2024 due to contractions in agriculture and energy.
He also highlighted concerns over the depreciating exchange rate and persistent inflation.
Banda further criticised Vice President Mutale Nalumango for what he described as misplaced optimism, arguing that economic indicators paint a different picture.
“Despite the Vice President’s praise of government achievements, inflation stood at 10.9 percent by the end of 2023, and the rising cost of living remains a major concern,” he said.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments