By Isaac Zulu
PeP leader Sean Tembo says it is fine for opposition leaders to use any language and behaviour of their choice, but President Hakainde Hichilema must distinguish himself
Speaking with Daily Revelation, Tembo justified use of any language or behaviour by opposition leaders and not the President.
“It is fine for leaders of opposition political parties to use any language and behaviour of their choice as they are politicking,” Tembo said. “But as he governs the affairs of the country, President Hakainde Hichilema should desist from copying the language and behaviour of leaders in opposition. He should distinguish himself from other political leaders.”
Tembo urged President Hakainde Hichilema to adopt civil and sober language, saying he must be dignified when relating with his predecessor, Edgar Lungu.
“From our stand point we are disappointed with the manner and fashion President Hakainde Hichilema conducted himself when he was in the Copperbelt Province, specifically with regards to how he was referring to his predecessor, president Edgar Lungu. We do not expect the Head of State to refer to his colleague as stupid because that is what ukutumpa literally means,” said Tembo. “We consider the two men; President Hichilema and president Edgar Lungu, being the only living Presidents, as statesmen and elders of the nation. And the way they relate to each other is of concern to us, as citizens. Therefore, as President Hichilema relates with president Edgar Lungu, we expect him to be civil and dignified. I think that, being a sitting Republican President, he should reflect on his language and adopt a more sober language.”
