CHAMBO NG’UNI
Kabwe
ACADEMICIAN Euston Chiputa has urged President Hakainde Hichilema to appoint cabinet ministers capable of translating his national development agenda into tangible benefits for citizens.
Dr Chiputa, who is a former University of Zambia lecturer, said the individuals appointed to Cabinet and key positions in ministries and provinces would effectively become the face of the President and should therefore possess the competence, integrity and commitment required to deliver on his vision.
He said President Hichilema should prioritise meritocracy by appointing people with a proven ability to perform and implement government programmes.
Dr Chiputa said ministers should also help the President win the confidence of citizens in areas where the United Party for National Development (UPND) received limited electoral support.
“The President has got to particularly look at those who look at meritocracy. It has to be those who will perform, those that will enable the President to gain even in those areas where he did not get votes, even those people that may not like him,” he said.
Dr Chiputa said President Hichilema’s first Cabinet was generally admirable, noting that only a few changes were made during his first term.
He said the President had given his ministers sufficient latitude to perform, adding that those appointed in the second term should demonstrate the same commitment while responding to the President’s call for national reconciliation and healing.
“This time around the situation is quite different because the President is talking about reconciling the nation, healing the country, and that should also be reflected in the appointment of the Cabinet ministers,” Dr Chiputa said.
He, however, said individuals who have stood with President Hichilema during his political journey should also be considered in the formation of the new Cabinet.
Dr Chiputa said ministers and permanent secretaries should be honest, loyal, capable and committed to translating presidential directives into practical results in ministries and provinces.
He said the appointed officials should keep their ears on the ground and understand the challenges facing citizens rather than concentrating on personal interests.
Dr Chiputa said effective implementation of government programmes willensure that the administration’s major initiatives result in improved livelihoods for all citizens.
Meanwhile, Chief Chamuka said traditional leaders are confident that President Hichilema will maintain an inclusive Cabinet that promotes regional representation and tribal cohesion.
He said inclusiveness will help ensure balanced representation and strengthen national unity.
“It is important that as a country we foster peace, unity and love. These three should lead us as we transition in the second term of the ruling party,” Chief Chamuka said.
He said Zambians are looking towards national healing and development and expect the new Cabinet to help advance these priorities.
