Restoring Dignity and Focus: Why Zambia’s State House Must Lead, Not Entertain
Steven Harvey’s recent remark at State House, “I have been on this continent for over 18 years, doing things. I have spoken in front of many people in my life, but never in front of this many hatchback chairs with people that look nervous,” was both unnecessary and profoundly disrespectful. Such a careless statement trivialized the sanctity of Zambia’s highest office, turning what should have been a dignified occasion into a spectacle. By mocking “nervous people” and “hatchback chairs,” Harvey displayed a blatant disregard for the gravity of the institution and the people it represents, reducing the occasion to a cheap comedy show.
Even more disturbing was the reaction of a senior government official—the Economic Advisor to the President—who found humor in Harvey’s remark. Rather than upholding the dignity of his office, the advisor laughed along, adding insult to injury. This unprofessional behavior belittled not only the Presidency but also the citizens of Zambia, who expect seriousness and respect from their leaders, especially during official engagements. Such moments highlight a worrying erosion of the decorum that should characterize State House.
A Pattern of Disrespect and Poor Prioritization
Unfortunately, this incident is not isolated. It is part of a disturbing pattern that suggests a diminishing respect for the institution of the Presidency under the current administration. Just months ago, American musician Ne-Yo attended an event at State House wearing slippers—an inappropriate and casual choice many viewed as an affront to the office.
These repeated missteps raise serious concerns about the priorities of this government. State House, a symbol of national unity, authority, and governance, is increasingly being treated as a platform for entertainment and celebrity engagements rather than as the nerve center of Zambia’s leadership. Such casual treatment not only diminishes the respect commanded by the institution domestically but also risks tarnishing Zambia’s reputation on the global stage.
The Plight of Ordinary Zambians
While leaders indulge in celebrity fanfare and misplaced jokes, the people of Zambia are enduring immense hardships:
Rolling Blackouts: Endless power outages have disrupted homes, paralyzed businesses, and severely impacted productivity. Despite campaign promises of solutions, there is little sign of meaningful improvement.
Rising Fuel Prices: The cost of fuel has skyrocketed, driving up transportation and commodity prices. Ordinary Zambians are being pushed to the brink as their incomes fail to keep pace with this relentless economic pressure.
Food Insecurity: Hunger has become an everyday reality for many households. Families are struggling to afford basic necessities, and the rising cost of living is leaving millions vulnerable to malnutrition and poverty.
These are not minor inconveniences—they are severe crises demanding the government’s immediate attention and decisive action. Yet, the administration appears distracted, prioritizing photo opportunities and social engagements over solving the pressing challenges facing millions of Zambians.
State House Must Be a Beacon of Leadership
State House is not just a building; it is the heart of Zambia’s governance, a place that represents hope, unity, and direction. It should embody respect, integrity, and professionalism. Allowing it to be reduced to a venue for frivolity and casual disrespect undermines the trust and confidence of the Zambian people.
The Presidency is not a stage for comedy routines or celebrity fanfare; it is a sacred institution that should stand above reproach. Every engagement at State House must reflect the seriousness of the nation’s challenges and the commitment of its leaders to addressing them. Hosting celebrities and indulging in misplaced humor while citizens endure blackouts, hunger, and economic hardship is not only tone-deaf but outright offensive.
Time to Refocus
The Zambian people deserve a government that prioritizes their well-being, not one that seeks applause for hosting international entertainers. The administration must immediately refocus its energy on resolving the issues that matter most to the citizens:
1. Tackling Energy Challenges: Develop and implement tangible solutions to end rolling blackouts and secure a stable energy supply for homes and businesses.
2. Controlling Fuel Prices: Take meaningful steps to stabilize fuel costs and mitigate the ripple effects on transportation and essential goods.
3. Addressing Food Insecurity: Implement policies to ensure food affordability and provide support for vulnerable families struggling to survive in these tough times.
4. Restoring Respect for State House: Maintain professionalism and ensure that all engagements at State House reflect the dignity of the Presidency and the people it serves.
What is Zambia’s Benefit from Steve Harvey’s Visit? Did we really need his visit at this time
In light of the focus on celebrity appearances, one must ask: What is Zambia’s real benefit from Steve Harvey’s visit? Is it just about entertainment, or should State House be more focused on fostering strategic partnerships that could address the pressing issues facing the country? While celebrities can bring visibility to a nation, their visits should also result in tangible outcomes that support Zambia’s development goals. Without clear benefits tied to such high-profile visits, the government risks appearing more interested in spectacle than in serving the needs of its citizens.
Conclusion
Leadership is not about hosting celebrities, cracking jokes, or indulging in casual entertainment. It is about standing firm in the face of adversity, addressing the needs of the people, and upholding the dignity of the institutions that embody the nation.
The current trajectory risks alienating citizens and eroding confidence in the government’s ability to lead. The Presidency must rise above distractions and return to its core mission: serving the Zambian people with respect, integrity, and a relentless focus on solving the nation’s pressing challenges.
The time to act is now—before the disconnect between leadership and the citizenry becomes irreparable. Zambians are watching, and they deserve better.