Let’s honour HH by voting for him - Hikaumba

…says thousands of young Zambians have entered public service through employment opportunities created without the old culture of paying money to access jobs

By BARNABAS ZULU

ZAMBIANS would be honouring President Hakainde Hichilema for his hard work by voting for him in the August 13, 2026 general election because the head of State has demonstrated commitment to improving the welfare of workers, Leonard Hickaumba has said.

Mr Hikaumba, the former Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU) president says this year’s Labour Day celebrations would provide workers with an opportunity to recognise a leader who has prioritised their interests.

“There comes a time in the life of a nation when history pauses, when the voices of the people rise above the noise, and when a nation looks back to honour those who have carried the burden of service,” Mr Hikaumba said.

He described President Hichilema as a leader who understood the sacrifices and challenges faced by ordinary workers, adding that his administration has implemented reforms aimed at improving their lives.

“A leader who knew the value of a salary, yet chose to sacrifice his own for years in service to the people. For four years and some months, he denied himself personal benefits because he believed Zambia’s future was greater than personal comfort. That is the heart of a worker. That is the spirit of service,” he said.

Mr Hikaumba cited salary harmonisation, pension reforms and the introduction of partial pension withdrawals as some of the achievements that have benefited workers under the current administration.

He also said improvements had been recorded in the payment of council workers, while members of the security services had benefited from promotions, appointments and efforts to improve their welfare.

“The public servant who once felt forgotten now sees a government that is listening. The retiree who once struggled for years to receive benefits has witnessed improvements in the pension system,” he said.

Mr Hikaumba further commended the recruitment of thousands of young people into the public service, saying the process had given many families hope.

“Thousands of young Zambians have entered public service through employment opportunities created without the old culture of paying money to access jobs. Families have received hope. Young people have found a chance to serve their country,” he said.

He acknowledged that challenges remained but maintained that the government had demonstrated commitment to improving the lives of workers.

Mr Hikaumba urged workers and other citizens to reward President Hichilema’s service by voting for him.