The Barotse Royal Establishment (BRE) has described remarks allegedly made by a Tonse Alliance official opposing the construction of an international airport in Western Province as discriminatory.
The BRE has since written to the Tonse Alliance, calling on the opposition alliance to publicly distance itself from the comments.
Speaking on behalf of the BRE, Ngambela Mukela Manyando said the remarks undermine the principle of equitable national development and risk marginalising the people of Western Province.
Manyando stated that Barotseland is an integral part of Zambia and has waited for decades to benefit from fair and inclusive infrastructure development.
He said improved air connectivity to Mongu, Kalabo, the Liuwa Plains, Sioma Falls and the Zambezi waterways is essential for attracting investment, promoting tourism and unlocking the region’s economic potential.
Manyando further noted that residents of Western Province have for years observed other parts of the country receive priority in the development of roads, airports, hospitals and markets, while their region has continued to lag behind in key infrastructure investments.
The BRE has urged the Tonse Alliance to clarify its position on the matter and reaffirm its commitment to equitable development across all regions of the country.
