Miles advocates jailing of opposition presidential candidates

By BARNABAS ZULU

…pleads with President Hichilema to consider clemency for Nickson Chilangwa and ‘Why Me’ as he demands that some presidential candidates have some explanation to do over their dealings while in government

SOME presidential candidates should be behind bars instead of freely campaigning for the August 13 General Election because they have failed to account for the corruptly earned wealth they acquired while serving in public office, Miles Sampa has said.

Mr. Sampa, the leader of the Patriotic Front (PF) says authorities should instead consider releasing jailed former Kawambwa Member of Parliament Nickson Chilangwa social media personality ‘Why Me’, whom he claimed was merely being used.

Mr Sampa has called on the authorities not to relent in pursuing corruption cases against some presidential candidates, whom he has accused of having obtained their riches through corruption while serving in government.

Speaking during a UPND Alliance media briefing, Mr. Sampa said certain individuals seeking the presidency had unresolved questions to answer over their conduct in public office.

“I would rather see some presidential candidates in jail than on the campaign trail. They should first answer for the corruption they allegedly committed before asking Zambians to vote for them,” Mr. Sampa said.

He added: “Release Why Me and Nickson Chilangwa. Why Me was just being used, but there are people who want to become President who have serious issues they need to answer.”

Mr. Sampa also described President Hakainde Hichilema as a good-hearted leader, saying he had exercised restraint despite the allegations surrounding some of his political opponents.

“President Hichilema is a good-hearted person. Despite everything that has been said about some of these people, he has shown a lot of restraint,” he said.

Mr. Sampa maintained that anyone aspiring to lead the country must first account for their record in public office before seeking the mandate of the Zambian people.

He said leadership demands integrity and accountability, adding that those facing serious corruption allegations should clear their names before presenting themselves as candidates for the presidency.