UPND Hits Back on Walkout Claims

...Government clarifies reasons for MPs' departure from debate

Lusaka, Zambia — (20-02-2025) — The ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) has denied claims that its members of Parliament fled from the motion to debate the high cost of living, which was introduced by opposition Patriotic Front (PF) member of Parliament for Lunte Constituency.

Stafford Mulusa Chief Government Whip told journalists at a media briefing at Parliament Building that the MPs walked out of Parliament because the motion that was brought to the National Assembly  was non consequential.

Mulusa said the UPND is prepared to engage in a serious debate about the rising cost of living in Zambia.

He clarified that the UPND did not walk out of the National Assembly, as suggested by some opposition members.

Instead, the discussion was on a motion of adjournment, which limits the time allotted for debate, and no private motion on the cost of living had been presented.

“The limited time allocated under a motion of adjournment does not afford the house enough opportunity to discuss critical issues like the cost of living comprehensively,” Mulusa stated.

He urged the opposition to submit a formal private member's motion to facilitate a thorough discussion on this pressing topic.

Mulusa expressed the UPND's confidence in its economic policies aimed at addressing the ongoing challenges related to the cost of living, asserting, “We are proud of the economic turnaround efforts that President Hakainde Hichilema's government continues to make to improve the lives of Zambians.”

Additionally, he addressed criticisms from the opposition, particularly the PF, questioning their moral authority to raise issues regarding the cost of living given the economic difficulties inherited from their administration.

“The PF has no moral right to criticize the government on this issue when they know too well the challenges they left behind,” he remarked.

The UPND's readiness to debate the cost of living reflects a proactive approach to one of the most pressing issues facing Zambians today.

The demand for substantive discussion and action on this topic is crucial as the economy grapples with rising prices.

He said the onus is now on the opposition to present a formal motion that allows for a comprehensive discussion on the cost of living, rather than relying on brief adjournment debates that fail to address the complexities of the issue.

Jonathan Daka Chadiza PF Member of Parliament  expressedconcerns about the non-conspiratorial nature of the motion, which did not compel the House to vote.

He criticized the way it was introduced, describing it as lacking substance and resembling an adjournment motion with no clear outcome.

Chadiza emphasized the need for motions to be presented in a manner that allows for proper debate and research.

“If any member wishes to bring it back, it must be done transparently. We need motions that invite thorough discussion,” he asserted.

His remarks followed a series of progressive motions that had garnered unanimous support from both the ruling party and the opposition.

This raised concerns about the narrative suggesting that ruling party members had abandoned the House to avoid challenges related to the motion. Chadiza clarified that he remained in the House to understand his colleague's proposal rather than evade responsibility.

He said rhe debate over the motion reflects broader issues within the Zambian parliamentary system, where the effectiveness of legislative discussions hinges on the clarity and intent behind proposed motions.

He urged fellow MPs  to prioritize transparency and engage in constructive dialogue to enhance the quality of legislative processes.