Economic Justice and Social Cohesion

... Fr. Bwalya Calls for Price Cuts, Condemns Propaganda, and Addresses Misinformation, Tribalism, and Excessive Pricing

By Francis Maingaila

Lusaka, Zambia24 - (May 19, 2025) - The United Party for National Development (UPND) has called on suppliers to pass on economic gains to consumers by lowering prices for essential goods such as mealie meal and sugar.

Addressing journalists in Lusaka, UPND National Media Committee Director General Frank Bwalya said that recent improvements — including a stable power supply, increased local fertilizer production, and a significant K6 drop in diesel prices — should result in lower production and transportation costs.

“This trend is already visible in places like Livingstone, where the prices of essentials like mealie meal and sugar have started falling,” Bwalya said.

“We urge the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, relevant government agencies, and civil society to ensure these benefits reach every Zambian.”

He accused some suppliers of practicing “double standards” by quickly raising prices when costs increase but delaying reductions when input costs fall.

Bwalya emphasized the need to reflect Zambia’s current economic stability in the marketplace, citing improved input distribution and a strong maize harvest.

Bwalya also called on economists who predict inflation during tough times to now speak up and demand price cuts in response to the improving economic indicators.

U.S. Aid Withholding Should Not Be Politicized

Bwalya condemned what he described as “unpatriotic behavior” by some opposition figures allegedly celebrating the U.S. government’s withholding of $50 million in health sector aid.

“This is not about President Hichilema — it’s about the well-being of the Zambian people,” he said, echoing sentiments by Catholic priest Fr. Andrew Chewe Mukosa, who advised against politicizing the development.

Bwalya reaffirmed the UPND government’s commitment to fighting corruption, particularly in the health sector, and restoring donor confidence.

“This is the same President who reintroduced meal allowances for students, increased social protection programmes, and made major investments in education.

He will not tolerate theft of medicine or funds meant for the sick,” he stated.

Tribal Propaganda Rejected

Bwalya also took aim at what he called “malicious propaganda” aimed at dividing the country along tribal lines.

“There are individuals making baseless claims that this government is persecuting people based on tribe or region. These accusations are coming from people facing legal consequences — not political persecution,” he said.

He emphasized that the UPND respects the independence of law enforcement agencies and warned that justice would be served fairly and impartially.

“We will not sit back while lies are used to undermine national unity. Truth and integrity must guide our politics,” Bwalya said.

Focus on Service

In his closing remarks, Bwalya called on UPND leaders and officials to remain steadfast in serving the people of Zambia.

“We were elected to bring development, not to play politics. We will not be distracted by propaganda. We will not relent,” he said.