Lunte MP Kafwaya Accuses UPND Government of Institutionalising Political Cadres



In a scathing critique of the United Party for National Development (UPND) government, Lunte Member of Parliament Mutotwe Kafwaya has accused the ruling party of institutionalising political cadres within key government institutions. Mr. Kafwaya claims this practice has compromised the integrity of vital institutions and poses a significant threat to national governance.

Speaking to journalists, Mr. Kafwaya expressed concerns over what he described as the blatant appointment of known UPND cadres to critical positions in government. He highlighted the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) as a prime example, citing the appointment of Mwangala Zaloumis as the commission’s chairperson. According to Mr. Kafwaya, such appointments are not only alarming but also indicative of a broader agenda to advance the interests of the ruling party at the expense of national unity.

“The UPND government has polarised key institutions by appointing well-known political cadres to strategic positions,” Mr. Kafwaya said. “This is a danger to our nation because it erodes public trust and undermines the professionalism that these institutions require to function effectively."

The Lunte MP further warned that these developments have far-reaching implications for the country's democracy and governance. “When you have cadres running institutions like the Electoral Commission of Zambia, the independence and credibility of these bodies are called into question. Their loyalty is not to the nation but to the ruling party, and this compromises their ability to deliver fair and impartial services,” he added.

Mr. Kafwaya called on the UPND government to reconsider its approach and focus on fostering a merit-based system for appointments to key positions. “Zambians deserve institutions that serve the people, not the narrow interests of a political party,” he said.

The outspoken MP’s comments come at a time when the UPND has faced mounting criticism over its governance style and alleged failure to live up to its campaign promises of reform and inclusivity. Critics argue that the appointment of party loyalists to senior positions contradicts the party's pledge to depoliticise public institutions.

Efforts to reach the UPND leadership for a response to Mr. Kafwaya’s allegations were unsuccessful at the time of publication. However, the ruling party has previously defended its appointments, stating that they are based on qualifications and competence rather than political affiliation.

Mr. Kafwaya’s remarks are likely to reignite the ongoing debate about the role of political influence in Zambia’s governance structures. As the country gears up for future elections, calls for impartiality and professionalism in public institutions are expected to grow louder.

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