The government has publicly distanced itself from controversial statements made by Mafinga Member of Parliament and opposition Patriotic Front leader, Mr. Robert Chabinga, during a press conference held on 2nd May 2025. Chabinga’s remarks, perceived as inflammatory and targeted at members of the diplomatic community, have triggered concern from both local observers and foreign missions.
In a prompt and strongly worded response, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation clarified that Mr. Chabinga’s views do not reflect the Government’s official stance, nor do they align with Zambia’s foreign policy principles. The Government emphasized its commitment to the Vienna Convention and to the respectful, rules-based engagement with international partners.
Below is the full official statement from the Government:
Lusaka, 5th May 2025 — The Government of the Republic of Zambia, through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, has issued a formal clarification regarding recent statements made by Mr. Robert Chabinga, Member of Parliament for Mafinga and leader of the opposition Patriotic Front, during a press conference held on 2nd May 2025.
In a strongly worded press statement, the Ministry unequivocally distanced the Government from Mr. Chabinga’s remarks, noting that his views do not represent the official position, policy, or diplomatic posture of the Republic of Zambia. The Government reiterated Zambia’s unwavering commitment to its sovereign foreign policy, grounded in constructive bilateral and multilateral engagement.
Zambia reaffirmed its status as a responsible and active member of the international community, upholding the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961). The Convention provides a vital framework for the conduct of diplomats and emphasises mutual respect between host and sending states. In line with this, the Government expressed appreciation for the vital role played by the diplomatic corps in supporting Zambia’s development agenda.
Furthermore, the Ministry stressed its full commitment to ensuring that diplomats serving in Zambia enjoy their privileges and immunities without fear or undue interference. Equally, it was acknowledged that diplomats are expected to respect the laws and regulations of the host state, including the principle of non-interference in domestic affairs.
The Ministry also took the opportunity to remind political leaders and stakeholders that matters relating to diplomatic accreditation and conduct fall exclusively under its jurisdiction. No individual or political entity is authorised to speak or act on behalf of the Government in such matters.
While Zambia welcomes robust political dialogue, the Ministry cautioned that inflammatory rhetoric, particularly in matters of foreign relations, can compromise the nation’s diplomatic integrity and standing within the global community.
The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of Zambia’s dedication to fostering cordial, respectful, and mutually beneficial international relationships.
(Original signed)
Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, S.C., M.P.
Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation
Lusaka
5th May, 2025
No choice; a beggar nation cannot afford to antagonize the donor community!
And where does this leave all those that were vocal? They are ashamed and must publicly apologise to the diplomats involved. I remember the HH saying that those who do wrong things have no blessings from government or UPND. They are on their own.
Why New dawn so Quick on This One?
That MP talked too much and has himself to blame. Government has also dillydallied in replying to such disinformation. The global community probably petitioned minister Haimbe, prompting him to issue an official statement to disclaim.
Actually its just the ruling party getting jittery. But why should the government issue a statement when all MPs have freedom of speech? And this is not a ruling party MP Why are they bothered? Everyone knows his are not the official views of UPND. Do we worry about what UK opposition is saying about sending African imigrants to Mongolia?
Kabinga is just a problem
This chap so called chabinga is a loose Canon , good old days when the elders will come together and decide what sort of punishment should be given to such individuals, look what he has done to PF.
That sounds like the beginning of an interesting thought! Sometimes, rushing to separate from something, whether an idea, a movement, or even a relationship can led to unintended consequences. Chabinga and donors have always been your friends kikikiki.
A quick dismissal by the governmeant from Chabinga is also a problematic for the fact that when he said something that aligns with their policies, they dined with him at the same table.
It took two to three days before government reacted to the malice Chabinga was spiting. Meantime, a media body, MLC, also publicly accused ambassadors of meddling in Zambia’s affairs. To me, that is not being quick. It was a LATE reactionary move. They were perhaps reminded by someone else to state whether what he said and the further accusations constituted government’s position. Otherwise, it still remains a shameful conduct whichever way it is looked at. Better late than never, though.
This is the price you pay when your desperation leads you to going to bed with any dog that barks nonsense in your favor. How many times are you going to disown your own?
You are getting confused and scoring own goals every day. Ba kabwa imwe