President Hakainde Hichilema has called on Zambians to grant the ruling United Party for National Development another term in office, saying the party has delivered on key promises made to citizens and remains committed to accelerating national development.
Speaking upon arrival at Mansa Airport in Luapula Province, President Hichilema said the UPND government has made significant progress since assuming office in 2021, despite inheriting a struggling economy and facing several national challenges.
The Head of State said one of the government’s major achievements has been the implementation of free education, which has enabled children from vulnerable families to access education without financial barriers.
President Hichilema noted that the policy has opened doors for thousands of learners across the country and demonstrated government’s commitment to investing in human capital development.
He told residents of Luapula Province that while important progress has been made, there is still much more work to be done in improving livelihoods, creating jobs, expanding infrastructure and strengthening public services.
The President urged citizens to support the UPND in the upcoming elections to ensure continuity in the implementation of development programmes already underway.
“We have delivered on many of the promises we made to the people, but there is still more work ahead. We need to continue on this path of development and transformation,” President Hichilema said.
He further described elections as an opportunity for Zambians to unite around a common vision for national development rather than allowing divisions to hinder progress.
President Hichilema said his administration inherited a severely distressed economy burdened by unsustainable debt levels and other economic challenges, but through reforms and prudent management, government has been able to stabilise the economy and restore confidence among investors and development partners.
He maintained that the country’s economic recovery has been achieved through difficult but necessary decisions aimed at putting Zambia back on a sustainable growth path.
The President also warned against returning to policies and leaders whom he said contributed to the country’s economic difficulties in the past.
He argued that those responsible for accumulating excessive debt and weakening the economy should not be entrusted with leadership again, adding that Zambians should carefully assess the records of political parties and candidates before casting their votes.
President Hichilema urged citizens not to be misled by political rhetoric but instead focus on tangible achievements delivered by the UPND government since taking office.
He said voters should judge leaders based on their performance and commitment to improving the welfare of ordinary citizens.
The President reiterated government’s commitment to expanding development programmes across all provinces, including investments in education, healthcare, agriculture, infrastructure and economic empowerment.
He concluded by calling on the people of Luapula Province and the country at large to support the UPND’s vision for continued growth, unity and prosperity, stating that Zambia’s future depends on maintaining the progress achieved over the past five years.
I would certainly consider the call if it came from the VP