Tonse Criticises Political Promises

Alliance questions realism of diplomatic job assurances to unsuccessful aspirants

By Francis Maingaila ♥️ 

Lusaka, Zambia24  --- (7-5-2026) -- The Tonse Alliance has criticised what it describes as unrealistic political promises following remarks attributed to Hakainde Hichilema suggesting that unsuccessful ruling party aspirants could later be considered for diplomatic appointments or nomination to Parliament.

Tonse Alliance spokesperson Dr. Lawrence Mwelwa said while political encouragement during adoption processes was understandable, national leadership must remain “grounded in realism, constitutional limitations, and institutional integrity.”

Dr. Mwelwa argued that Zambia does not have unlimited ambassadorial positions or nominated parliamentary seats to accommodate large numbers of unsuccessful candidates.

“Diplomatic appointments are finite, constitutionally regulated, and currently occupied by serving officials representing the Republic across the world,” he said.

He warned against creating exaggerated expectations among aspiring candidates, many of whom invest significant personal resources and mobilise communities during adoption processes.

“Politics must never become an industry of emotional promises that cannot practically be fulfilled,” Dr. Mwelwa stated.

The opposition alliance further argued that public office should not be treated as a consolation arrangement for internal party management, insisting that ambassadorial appointments must be based on competence, strategic judgment and the ability to professionally represent Zambia’s interests abroad.

The Tonse Alliance also urged aspiring candidates across the political divide to participate in the democratic process with “political maturity and realism,” saying leadership should be pursued as service to citizens rather than expectation of reward.

“Democracy is strengthened when citizens are inspired by principles, not sustained by promises that arithmetic itself cannot support,” the statement read.