Syakalima’s wife advises hubby not to re-contest parliamentary elections
IMMEDIATE past Minister of Education Douglas Syakalima has bowed out of the race to parliament after his wife and other family members advised him to leave the stage while people are still clapping.
Syakalima will therefore not re-contest the Chirundu Constituency seat in the upcoming general election.
Speaking at a media briefing in Lusaka this morning, Syakalima said he will instead focus on supporting President Hakainde Hichilema’s countrywide campaign.
The former minister represented Chirundu since 2016.
“I agreed to do what family asked me to because it is unusual for family to make such decisions. I am grateful to my family for this advice,” he said.
Syakalima said it is encouraging to see a lot of support coming from his family on his political career.
He said he will campaign for President Hichilema in all corners of the country, explaining to good things his government has done in the education sector and beyond.
He added that his journey as both member of parliament and minister has been good , and thanked the people for the confidence they placed in him and his leadership.
“I am a very proud person today because of the support I have received from both family and the Zambian citizens during my tenure,” he said.
Syakalima further apologised to the people he kept on the dark till date, on the decision he has made.
He also thanked senior officials for being selfless team players that pushed progressive reforms and urged them to do more as more work is needed to advance education.
Meanwhile, the Deans of District Education Board Secretaries (DEBS) and teachers have thanked Dr Syakalima for his unifying leadership that made the teaching fraternity a force to reckon.
The Deans described him as an Education Minister who was far from the usual owing to the tremendous impact he made to pull gains in one direction for the good of the nation.
By Sanfrossa Mberi
Kalemba May 16, 2026