AIPAC Condemns UPND Ministers’ Walkout, Calls for Cabinet Reshuffle
The Acton Institute for Policy Analysis Centre (AIPAC) has strongly condemned the disgraceful walkout of Cabinet ministers and UPND Members of Parliament during a crucial parliamentary debate on Zambia’s worsening cost of living crisis. The move, described as an act of cowardice and irresponsibility, has sparked outrage among stakeholders demanding immediate accountability from the ruling party.
AIPAC Executive Director Solomon Ngoma did not mince words, stating, “What we witnessed in Parliament is not just an embarrassment; it is a betrayal of the Zambian people. These ministers and MPs were elected to serve, yet when faced with a critical national issue, they chose to run rather than engage. This is a clear sign that President Hakainde Hichilema needs a new team—one that prioritizes the people over political games.”
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The think tank criticized the ruling party’s lack of maturity and leadership, accusing the government of failing to take responsibility for the economic hardships gripping the nation. Zambia has been experiencing skyrocketing food prices, fuel hikes, and a depreciating kwacha, leaving millions struggling to afford basic necessities. “If this government cannot face the crisis head-on, then they have no business being in power,” Ngoma added.
The walkout, which occurred just as lawmakers debated solutions to the cost-of-living crisis, has fueled speculation of deep internal fractures within the UPND leadership. Observers believe the move reflects a government that is either overwhelmed or unwilling to engage in constructive dialogue. “This is not how a responsible government behaves. If the pressure of governing is too much for them, they should resign,” Ngoma asserted.
AIPAC has called on President Hichilema to conduct an urgent Cabinet reshuffle, arguing that some ministers have become liabilities rather than assets to his administration. “We urge the President to bring in leaders who will work, not those who flee when it’s time to answer tough questions,” Ngoma stated.
Furthermore, the organization warned that such actions undermine Zambia’s democratic institutions and set a dangerous precedent. “This walkout sends a chilling message—that those in power are not interested in being held accountable. It is a slap in the face of every struggling Zambian,” Ngoma said, urging civil society, the media, and the public to reject such conduct.
With growing frustration over the government’s handling of economic issues, pressure is mounting on the UPND to prove it is capable of delivering real solutions. Whether President Hichilema will take decisive action against his retreating ministers remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—Zambians are losing patience.
February 20, 2025
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AIPAC Condemns UPND Ministers’ Walkout, Calls for Cabinet Reshuffle
