The country has lately witnessed heightened political divisions especially on a number of important good governance elements that concretize our democratic growth.
The country is never short of reports of political feuds during Zambia’s commemoration of its independence. Politicians disagree literally on anything however one thing certain that keeps everybody talking and agreeing is that Zambia has been independent for now 58 years.
Nonetheless the country is becoming more and more divided politically on a number of governance issues ranging from electoral management to economic empowerment to mention but a few.
Growth of democracy is never plain sailing but with deliberate effort by those charged with leadership in government and those who offer checks and balances.
Zambia’s democracy has been on several times thrown to test with different political leadership, making long strides towards bettering her democracy and sometimes taking steps backwards. There is however one thing certain that Zambia’s democracy is growing.
Zambians’ Independence goals were mostly influenced by the desire to free Zambia from Britain and further promote unity among its inhabitants. The desire to liberate Zambia was immediately achieved after she got her independence in 1964. Political divisions have always been in the political limelight since independence though unity has always been a priority among others.
She has over the years managed to promote this unity among Zambians with deliberate undertakings aimed at achieving it. The motto one Zambia one Nation was purposely driven to join Zambians into this unity across regions.
Promoting inclusiveness towards a sustainable and social recovery does not only speak broadly to promoting democracy but also unity in all areas of human development.
It is understandable when others shun to attend these celebrations which unfortunately the objective of doing so has become moribund as it does not influence any political fallout but only creates an atmosphere of freedom to do so or otherwise.
Zambians are allowed to experiment politically but the nation should avoid to experiment to practice disunity which has always threatened our national stability. Democracy itself promotes independence and therefore choices should be respected as provided for by our constitution.
At 58, I wish to congratulate all Zambians and encourage all to respect each other’s choices.
One Zambia one nation!
Francisco Mumba
Peace and Conflict Expert
0975561968
