Masebo dismisses third-term debate, defends Chongwe petition
Masebo dismisses third-term debate, defends Chongwe petition!
Sylvia Masebo has dismissed speculation over a possible third term for President Hakainde Hichilema, describing the debate as premature and insisting that it has no place in the UPND or government at this stage.
Ms Masebo, who is a member of the UPND National Executive Committee, says it is not President Hichilema’s intention to pursue a third term, arguing that the country should instead focus on the government’s growth agenda, job creation and development.
She says whoever leads Zambia in the future should ultimately be determined by the people, urging political players to allow time to take its course rather than prematurely debating the 2031 election.
Ms Masebo has also strongly denied reports and social-media publications attributed to her, particularly claims that she accused the Electoral Commission of Zambia of conducting irregular elections or described the Chongwe election results as fake.
She says she has not issued any statement to the media since the August 13 elections and maintains that her only formal position on the Chongwe East election is contained in the petition she has taken before the courts.
She adds that her petition is based on alleged defamation, violence and electoral misconduct, which she wants the Judiciary to consider in accordance with the laws of Zambia.
She has maintained that her action should not be interpreted as an attack on the Electoral Commission of Zambia, saying she respects public institutions and has chosen the lawful route available to any person who feels aggrieved by an election.
And while acknowledging that she could either win or lose the petition, Masebo says she will respect the court’s decision and remain committed to the UPND regardless of the outcome.
She has also rejected suggestions that she is tired, politically finished or planning to leave the party, saying she has served in both government and opposition and has experienced both electoral victories and defeats.
Ms Masebo has further called for restraint in political discourse, expressing concern over what she describes as the abuse of social media through fake pages and fabricated stories aimed at damaging political reputations.
She has urged political players to use established legal institutions whenever they have grievances, saying the Judiciary should be allowed to resolve electoral disputes.
Meanwhile, Ms Masebo has congratulated the newly nominated Members of Parliament, welcoming what she describes as a broader representation of women, young people and other groups in Parliament.
She says the increased representation is consistent with the constitutional reforms she supported and expresses confidence that more women and young people will enter Parliament in future.
-Diamond TV