Vice President, Rupiah Banda, is sure of the ruling Movement for Multiparty Democracy, MMD, victory in the forthcoming Milanzi by-election set for June 26.
The vice president told ZANIS in Chipata today that the party is ready for the by-election adding that it is so far the strongest party in the eastern province.
Mr Banda observed that the MMD has a strong foundation for its campaign, based on it having managed to secure the highest number of parliamentary seats in the 2006 tripartite elections.
“Im optimistic that we shall scoop the seat and I would ask the people here to do all they can so that we increase the number of seats in parliamentary seats from 16 to 17,” he said.
Mr. Banda has since advised the party leadership in the province to adequate prepare for the campaign and ensure that the MMD scoops the seat.
The Milanzi seat fell vacant after the death of UNIP MP, Chosani Njovu recently.
Meanwhile, Mr Banda has advised farmers in the province against selling their maize until government announces the floor price for the commodity, if they are to realize profits.
He advised them not to rush to selling the grain to briefcase buyers, who offer low prices but later resell the product at recommended price to government.
In another development, the vice president said people should not criticize newly appointed Zambia national team coach, Herve Leonard, but allow him to perform his duties.
Mr Banda said people should not complain about his wages because coaches all over the world are very expensive.
He stated that Zambians should not compare their wages to those of a coach because coaches are highly paid.
“We should not complain about him but welcome him with open arms, he might just be the team’s savior,” he said.
No comment as the vip is ‘ba pongoshi’& not only that, I ‘ve respect for him.
Imagine the South African vice-President addressing electorates and starts defending the appointment of SANTANA as bafana bafana coach. Mr. Banda, what’s the problem with you?. You mean there are no serious issues you could raise with your relatives in Milanzi to convince them to vote for your man? I am pissed off by this mediocre!!!!
I wont be surprised if the MMD win this by-election. Rupiah Banda was successful in rigging the votes for LPM in Eastern Province during the 2006 elections. He is an experienced old hand at dirty tricks.