By TROY MUKUPA
President Hakainde Hichilema has taken to his Facebook page to congratulate the winners of the Pambashe and Petauke parliamentary by-elections, secured by the UPND and the opposition, respectively.
In his post, the President notes that the true victor in these elections is Zambia’s democracy, which has shown significant progress in recent years.
According to President Hichilema, the peaceful and orderly environment in which the by-elections were conducted is a testament to the country’s growing democratic maturity. “Just three years ago, such elections would have been overshadowed by violence and intimidation, drawing widespread national concern,” he recalls. “Today, Zambia stands as a beacon of democratic progress, where political competition is determined by the will of the people, not fear or coercion.”
The President’s comments come after the UPND secured victory in the Pambashe constituency, while the opposition won in Petauke. The elections were marked by a lack of violence and intimidation, which was noted by various observers, including the Christian Churches Monitoring Group (CCMG).
As President Hichilema aptly puts it, “Across the nation, many citizens were barely aware that these by-elections were taking place—an indication of the peaceful and orderly environment in which they were conducted.” This statement highlights the significant strides Zambia has made in promoting peace and stability during elections.
Furthermore, President Hichilema notes that “our democracy and spirit of coexistence have grown by leaps and bounds.” He congratulates both candidates and their respective parties, saying “Congratulations once again to both candidates and their respective parties. May this spirit of peace and democratic maturity continue to define our great nation.”