Hakainde Hichilema has cautioned public officials against abusing their positions, urging them to prioritise service delivery and national development over personal interests.
Speaking during the swearing-in ceremony of newly appointed government officials at State House this morning, President Hichilema said public office holders must use their roles to improve the livelihoods of citizens rather than pursue personal gain.
The President made the remarks after swearing in Ainess Mukuwa as Controller of Internal Audits at the Ministry of Finance and National Planning, Andisiye Lengalenga as Director General for Public Private Partnerships, and Joseph Akafumba as Zambia’s High Commissioner to Nigeria.
He reminded the appointees that their selection was a privilege entrusted to them by millions of Zambians.
“You have been selected out of 21 million people to serve the people of Zambia and we expect to see you serving them responsibly and to the best of your ability,” President Hichilema said.
The Head of State added that public officials must align their work with the development agenda of the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), stating that those unwilling to support the government’s vision should decline appointments.
He further noted that both citizens and government officials share responsibility for sustaining economic growth and national progress.
President Hichilema also urged Zambian diplomats to focus on attracting investment, warning against conduct that could tarnish the country’s image abroad.
“It is high time ambassadors and high commissioners begin bringing investments into the country instead of involving themselves in other things,” he said.
“I’m watching ambassadors going for happy hours. At parties they are the last ones to leave while staggering in a foreign land and people say that is how Zambians behave. You have never seen me staggering. Let us respect ourselves and exercise restraint,” the President added.
