By 
The Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) has expressed concern over rising political polarisation, warning that it threatens national unity and progress.
Speaking during an end-of-year media briefing at the ZCTU offices in Lusaka on Friday, ZCTU president, Blake Mulala, urged political players to foster dialogue, inclusivity, and tolerance.
“National unity must be prioritised to create a peaceful and conducive environment for economic growth and social development,” Mulala stated.
While commending Zambia’s overall political stability in 2024 as a foundation for development, Mulala reminded politicians to maintain sobriety in their engagements.
“Zambia is bigger than any individual or political party. We appeal to all political players to remain sincere and act in the nation’s interest,” he said.
Mulala reaffirmed ZCTU’s respect for the executive, legislature, and judiciary, emphasizing that decisions made by any arm of government must serve the nation’s interests.
He praised the judiciary for resolving the contentious eligibility issue, which he said could have divided the country.
“Our trust is that decisions from all three arms of government are made in good faith, prioritising the people rather than political interests,” Mulala noted.
Commending the government’s commitment to upholding the rule of law, Mulala, however, raised concerns over perceived selective application and delays in judicial processes.
“Delays in judicial processes undermine public confidence. We need a justice system that is accessible, impartial, and swift in addressing cases affecting workers and vulnerable communities,” he urged.
Mulala reminded the government that the rule of law is a cornerstone of good governance and social justice, which must be fully upheld in 2025.
He also highlighted corruption as a persistent obstacle to Zambia’s development.
Mulala noted that despite ongoing anti-corruption efforts, progress remained slow, with political actors frequently implicated in high-profile corruption cases.
“ZCTU calls for transparent accountability mechanisms to ensure public resources serve the common good. Comprehensive reforms that involve all stakeholders, including trade unions, are crucial in the fight against corruption,” he said.
A corruption-free Zambia, Mulala added, would accelerate economic growth, restore public trust, and improve workers’ welfare.
He reaffirmed ZCTU’s commitment to combating corruption and announced plans to launch a nationwide anti-corruption strategy in 2025.
“We will unveil a clear roadmap to tackle corruption and urge all members across the country to actively participate in this fight,” Mulala said.
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