Sensio blasts NGOs over ‘tribal promotion’
Political commentator and activist Sensio has criticised some non-governmental organisations, accusing them of promoting tribal narratives that risk deepening divisions within society. He said civil society groups must exercise caution and responsibility in how they frame political and governance issues.
Sensio argued that NGOs hold significant influence in shaping public discourse, particularly through reports, statements, and advocacy campaigns. When that influence is used in ways that emphasise ethnic identity, he said, it undermines national unity and distracts from substantive policy debates.
He said concerns arise when governance issues are framed through a tribal lens rather than assessed on the basis of law, accountability, and institutional performance. According to Sensio, such framing fuels suspicion and polarisation, making it harder for citizens to engage constructively with national issues.
The activist questioned the neutrality of organisations that, in his view, selectively highlight issues in ways that align with ethnic narratives. He warned that civil society risks losing credibility when advocacy appears politically or tribally skewed.
Sensio stressed that Zambia’s strength lies in its diversity and history of relative social cohesion. He said NGOs should contribute to strengthening that cohesion by promoting inclusive narratives and focusing on shared national challenges rather than emphasising differences.
He also cautioned that tribal framing can be exploited by political actors seeking to mobilise support through identity rather than policy. In such contexts, civil society, he argued, should act as a stabilising force rather than an amplifier of division.
Representatives of civil society organisations have previously maintained that their work is guided by principles of human rights, accountability, and transparency. They have argued that highlighting issues affecting specific communities does not amount to promoting tribalism, but rather reflects lived realities.
The exchange highlights ongoing tension between activists and NGOs over the role of civil society in political debates. As Zambia navigates an increasingly charged political environment, questions about neutrality, responsibility, and impact remain central.
Sensio called for greater introspection within the NGO sector, urging organisations to reflect on how their messaging is perceived and whether it contributes to unity or division. He said accountability should apply to all actors involved in public discourse.
You should include some in grz as well as it’s never been in the fore before
This is not a story that can be passed by any qualified editor!
It accuses unidentified nameless ghosts of tribalism.
“some non-governmental organisations”
“Some”???
You don’t name them and you publish the story??
The Chiluba, Sata and Lungu regimes exposed us to a corrosive tribal bigotry that excluded the Zambezi provinces from literally everything. Especially Sata, he was one hell of a cantankerous tribally bigoted and satanic fool!
I’m at a loss as to what he is talking about.
He doesn’t identify the NGO(s) to which he is referring or what tribal activities they are promoting.
Yet again I have to say that LT choose to publish utter nonsense.
Some comments are nonsense too including some of mine but frustration and blind loyalty by some who cant see the wood for the trees brings that about
having a logical mind and being able to think outside the box doesnt bodde well on here
Tikki
Spot on
Yes thank you. It’s the journalists to blame for the rabble-rousing
This one just wanted his photo to be in the news on LT……..
Just waffling with no substance…..,,,,
Generalising and not saying anything
FWD2041
Your 2041 sends me into depression STOP IT !!!!