THE European Union says it’s considering financial support for countries such as Zambia to help mitigate the anticipated negative effects of El Niño.
And EU Ambassador to Zambia Karolina Stasiak says the EU Election Observation Mission is preparing its final report on Zambia’s August 13 general election, with the findings expected to be released by December this year.
Ms Stasiak said yesterday that the EU is planning to develop a budget aimed at helping affected countries prepare for and respond to the potential impacts of the weather phenomenon.
And Ms Stasiak says the elections report will provide a comprehensive assessment of the entire electoral process and make recommendations aimed at improving future elections and strengthening democratic institutions.
Professor Phiri said the alliance is expected to remain united and promote intra-party democracy, stressing that internal divisions could undermine its ability to provide effective checks and balances on Government.
His comments follow the suspension of Dr Zimba, which was announced on Wednesday by Tonse Alliance national chairman Davis Mwila.
Mr Mwila said Mr Mundubile suspended Dr Zimba over allegations that he had recently been issuing statements without consulting the coalition.
Professor Phiri said the development could result in infighting within the opposition, particularly because individual political actors sometimes make statements that are subsequently interpreted as representing their organisations.
“Indeed, that situation weakens the opposition because now there will be infighting within the alliance,” he said.
Prof Phiri said political parties and alliances should strive to reach collective agreements before taking disciplinary action against senior members, particularly when such decisions have the potential to affect the cohesion of an opposition grouping.
He said the Tonse Alliance comprises several political parties that have come together with the common objective of participating in the democratic process.
Prof Phiri said maintaining unity is therefore essential if the alliance is to effectively scrutinise Government and provide meaningful checks and balances.
“Mind you, Tonse is an alliance of various political parties who came together. Now, for them to be able to offer checks and balances to the governing party, they need to remain united. That unity is very important not to themselves alone, but for the nation,” he said.
Dr Zimba could not be reached for comment by press time.
And UPND Alliance partner Charles Chanda has urged Zambians to respect President Hichilema, warning that those who insult the Head of State on social media could face legal consequences.
Mr Chanda, president of United Prosperous and Peaceful Zambia (UPPZ), said President Hichilema was duly elected and constitutionally sworn into office and should therefore be accorded the respect attached to the Presidency.
He expressed concern over people using derogatory language against the President over personal grievances.
Mr Chanda said alliance partners should consider taking action against individuals who abuse the President online.
He also said Government policies, including debt restructuring and free education, are benefiting civil servants and their families.
