By Given Mutinta
NOTHING CAN CHANGE THE DECISION MADE BY PATRIOTIC CITIZENS A LONG TIME AGO TO VOTE OUT PRESIDENT HICHILEMA.
When President Hakainde Hichilema assumed the presidency in 2021, he carried with him great expectations—hopes for renewed integrity, prosperity, and national unity.
However, over the course of his administration, many Zambians have come to perceive his leadership as a profound disappointment.
The criticisms levelled against him are not superficial complaints, but rather pointed observations about his governance style and values, or his true colours that were hidden while in opposition: dishonesty, arrogance, tribalism, corruption, divisiveness, lack of patriotism, vindictiveness, hypocrisy, disregard for the law, strange spiritual beliefs, and a failure to uphold democratic principles.
These labels encapsulate the reasons why many not only feel betrayed but are sick and tired of him, having entrusted him with the mandate to lead.
The repeated failures to meet these expectations have cemented a collective consciousness that his leadership is incompatible with the people and of the country’s aspirations.
Such a comprehensive catalogue of grievances has hardened public opinion against any possibility of reconciliation or renewed faith with him. They simply want him to go because they believe that no matter how horrible the next president is, he cannot be worse than President Hichilema – they see as a piece of evil.
It is tempting, though ultimately superficial, for him to believe that political fortunes can be reversed at this stage through grandiose rallies featuring top musicians or short-lived financial incentives.
While these tactics are momentarily energizing some of his supporters, they are doing little to change the deeply rooted convictions formed over the past five years of observation and experience of his leadership
It is sad that he does not know that genuine political allegiance is not bought with cash or top entertainment; it is earned through authentic leadership and consistent delivery on promises, which he has not provided.
The Zambian populace, having scrutinized President Hichilema’s character and governance, now views his tactics as hollow attempts to distract or manipulate rather than genuine outreach.
This realization renders every effort to sway public opinion ineffective, resonating instead as signs of desperation rather than conviction.
The inescapable conclusion from the current climate is clear: the electorate is resolute that he must go.
This does not merely represent political opposition but a profound loss of confidence that cannot be remedied at this stage.
If President Hichilema is committed to democratic principles, his priority must be to respect the will of the people.
The prudent course, therefore, is to acknowledge the finality of this public verdict and prepare for a dignified transition, demonstrating respect for the democratic process and for the people’s decision about the leadership they deserve.
This is a lesson to all leaders that a relationship between a president and the citizenry depends on trust built over time, yet once trust is broken and decisions are publicly made, the bond becomes irreparable – kuya bebele!