Don’t built reserves at people’s expense – Reuben Chama

By BARNABAS ZULU

BANGWEULU Independent aspiring Member of Parliament Reuben Chama has backed Tonse Pamodzi Alliance presidential candidate Brian Mundubile’s recent remarks on the country’s economic situation, arguing that building national reserves should not come at the expense of the welfare of ordinary Zambians.

Mr Chama said while building national reserves is an important economic objective, Government must ensure that such progress translates into tangible improvements in the lives of citizens.

He said many Zambians continue to grapple with a high cost of living, rising prices of essential commodities, unemployment and declining buying power despite Government’s claims of economic stability.

“Building national reserves is important, but reserves should never become an excuse for ignoring the daily struggles of ordinary citizens,” Mr Chama said.

“The real measure of economic success is whether people’s lives are improving. Today, many Zambians continue to face a high cost of living, rising prices of essential goods, unemployment and reduced purchasing power.”

Mr Chama questioned Government’s assertions that inflation had been brought under control, saying the continued financial hardships experienced by many households painted a different picture.

“If inflation has truly been brought under control, why do families still struggle to afford basic necessities?” he asked.

He also questioned the effectiveness of some of government’s flagship programmes, including free education and the Constituency Development Fund (CDF).

Mr Chama said although free education has increased access to schooling, many government schools remain overcrowded, with some classes reportedly accommodating more than 200 pupils, resulting in high teacher-to-pupil ratios that compromise the quality of learning.

He said while CDF has the potential to transform communities, many projects remain delayed, leaving citizens without access to essential public services.

Mr Chama stressed that building foreign exchange reserves should go with improving the welfare of citizens.

“A nation cannot celebrate growing reserves while many households are struggling to put food on the table,” he said.

He also called on government to settle outstanding debts owed to suppliers, contractors and other creditors, saying doing so would inject much-needed liquidity into the economy, support businesses, protect jobs and stimulate economic growth.

Ends.