STATEMENT IN RESPONSE TO THE PROTEST AT ZESCO HQ BY YOUTHS
We would like to address the youths who protested at ZESCO Headquarters today. Your demands to “fix ZESCO” are noted, and we appreciate your enthusiasm in advocating for better services.
However, we must correct the misinformation perpetuated. ZESCO is in good shape and well-managed under the able leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema. Our government is committed to good governance, transparency, and accountability, and we respect the rights of our citizens to freedom of expression, assembly, and association.
We acknowledge the importance of holding leaders accountable and appreciate your efforts in demanding better services. However, we must correct the narrative that our government is not listening or doesn’t care about the struggles of our citizens. Our commitment to democracy and human rights is unwavering.
We have been working tirelessly to address the power crisis, exploring all available solutions to mitigate its impact on our people. The current challenges facing our nation are a result of natural disasters like the El Nino drought, which are beyond human control. We are doing everything possible to minimize the effects of this crisis and ensure that our citizens receive the necessary support.
We urge all well-meaning citizens to stand with us in these challenging times, as we work together to overcome the difficulties facing our nation. We appreciate your commitment to holding your government accountable and assure you that your concerns are being addressed. We are a listening party and government, dedicated to finding solutions to our nation’s challenges while upholding the principles of good governance, human rights, and freedom.
We earnestly call on all well-meaning citizens to stand in solidarity with the government and the ruling party, as we work together to overcome this natural crisis. We believe that our collective efforts and spiritual strength will help us overcome this difficult time.
Castrol Kafweta,
Deputy Media Director, UPND National Youth Wing