Party leader, Chanda, queries competencies of Speaker Mutti, tasks Hichilema to opt for merit in appointments

The United Prosperous and Peaceful Zambia (UPPZ) has urged President Hakainde Hichilema to consider merit in the appointment of government officials, and not relying on party cadres for sensitive positions.

UPPZ leader, Charles Chanda, said Hichilema should prioritize the selection of individuals based on their competence, experience and dedication to public service.

Chanda in a statement issued in Lusaka on Wednesday said Nelly Mutti as the Speaker of the National Assembly starkly highlights this troubling pattern of cadre behaviour.

He said regrettably, Mutti had gloriously mismanaged her position, leading to serious implications for the country.

“These not only erode public trust but also threaten the principles of transparency, accountability, and meritocracy that are essential for the proper functioning of the democratic institutions,”Chanda said.

He argued that when individuals were appointed based solely on their party affiliation rather than their qualifications and expertise, the consequences were evident in day-to-day operations and decision-making.

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Chanda questioned the impartiality and quality of work delivered by the cadres, as they often end up favouring fellow party members, thereby compromising the integrity and effectiveness of the institutions.

“In particular, Hichilema needs to realize that governance of Zambia should not replicate the style of a political party,” he said.

Chanda said these appointments not only erode public trust but also threaten the principles of transparency, accountability, and meritocracy that are essential for the proper functioning of our democratic institutions.

The UPPZ leader called on Hichilema to address the concerns and uphold the principles of good governance.

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