THE ISSUE IS NOT WHERE THE PRESIDENT SLEEPS, BUT HOW PUBLIC RESOURCES ARE MANAGED

THE ISSUE IS NOT WHERE THE PRESIDENT SLEEPS, BUT HOW PUBLIC RESOURCES ARE MANAGED

The claim that President Hakainde Hichilema is wasting taxpayers’ money by returning to Lusaka after campaign engagements is based on assumptions rather than evidence.

Why do you want him to spend a night when the program is finished?

Responsible leadership is not measured by whether a president spends nights in every village he visits, but by whether public resources are used transparently, efficiently, and within the law.

A head of state has security, logistical, and operational considerations that ordinary travellers do not face. Returning to the capital after official engagements can, in some circumstances, be the more efficient option because it allows continuity of government operations, access to state facilities, and coordinated security arrangements.

The real question should be: what is the actual cost difference between returning to Lusaka and remaining overnight in the provinces? Without audited figures comparing fuel, accommodation, security, and staffing costs, claims of wastefulness are merely political speculation.

Furthermore, Zambia has previously witnessed leaders criticised for excessive expenditure, including large entourages, luxury travel, and unnecessary foreign trips. The focus should therefore be on measurable issues such as procurement transparency, value for money, and whether government programmes are delivering results.

A president who travels to all parts of the country to engage citizens is fulfilling a democratic responsibility. The debate should not be reduced to where the President spends the night, but whether his administration is improving the economy, creating jobs, and delivering services to Zambians.

Public accountability requires facts, not assumptions based on ignorance.

Let the President sleep where he feels comfortable.
You can also sleep where you feel warm.