By Merlyn Mwanza and Isaac Zulu
President Hakainde Hichilema has assured Paramount chief Chitimukulu of the Bemba people that traditional leadership selection is not a government preserve but that of the lineage since time immemorial.
And the Chitimukulu asked “finshi fimbi mulefwaya (ukumfwa)” when queried to answer certain questions after the meeting with the head of state.
During the run up to the 2021 elections, the Chitimukulu was quoted in several media outlets stating that he did not want to meet President Hichilema, then opposition UPND leader and his people, and there were even assertions the paramount chief feared the UPND government would take away the chieftaincy from him.
However, President Hichilema today paid a courtesy call on the Chitimukulu in Northern province where he said he has gone to interact with the people.
“Our conversation centered around unity of purpose and once again we stated that we continue to hold the view that traditional leadership selection is a not a government preserve but that of the lineage since time immemorial. His Royal Highness informed us about challenges that the people face such as poor roads, schools and health facilities but that he is happy with our flagship decentralisation policy which has seen creation of over 30, 000 jobs for teachers and over 11, 000 for health workers in all areas of Zambia,” stated the President on his Facebook page. “We are honoured to say that we appointed a cabinet drawn from all the 10 provinces of our country. Our intent is clear and together with all traditional leaders, we are making Zambia better and brighter. We are grateful to His Royal Highness and Bashi Lubemba for the warm welcome
Contacted later by Daily Revelation, the Chitimukulu refused to be drawn in some discussions.
Called to seek clarifications on what he discussed with the Head of State on account of his previous sentiments, the Mwine Lubemba said he had said what he wanted to say and wondered why media personnel were still calling him when they have heard and read what he has to share with the Head of State and members of the public, through various media platforms.
“Of course we had a fruitful meeting with the Head of State. It was a fruitful engagement. Of course I talked about the challenges that we have as a Chiefdom like feeder roads. Nomba fimbi nifinshi mulefwaya? Fyanshi uleipushya? Bushe tamwachumfwa ifyo nandile? (What else do you want? Why are you asking? You mean you did not listen to what I said)?” queried paramount chief Chitimukulu, before cutting the phone conversation.
