Zambia’s peace only guaranteed with UPND re-election – HH

 …tell Zambians that they would suffer should they vote for the opposition, accuses leaders from the previous administration of having plundered the country’s resources

 By MUBITA KATETE

 A RENEWED mandate for the United Party for National Development (UPND) in next month’s general election would safeguard free education, guarantee continued peace and national development, President Hakainde Hichilema has said.

 Addressing a public rally in Kafulafuta yesterday, President Hichilema said the country was at a critical point where citizens should elect leaders committed to improving people’s lives and sustaining its development agenda.

“This is an important year. It is important that we choose serious people. We know where we are coming from. People were being beaten by cadres, and we know those who made us suffer, even if they are now using a different name,” Mr Hichilema said.

He warned voters against supporting the opposition, arguing that doing so could reverse the progress achieved under the UPND administration.

“If people make a mistake and vote for the opposition, they will suffer. They need to make a good decision by voting for the UPND government,” Mr Hichilema said.

He cited the reintroduction of free education as one of his administration’s key achievements, saying the policy had enabled about 2.5 million children to return to school.

He said a second term for the UPND would ensure continued peace, job creation, improved public services and sustained economic development.

President Hichilema also announced plans to improve infrastructure in the area, including upgrading the Kafulafuta–Mkushi Road, constructing a police post and a health centre, and addressing water supply challenges.

 Referring to ongoing infrastructure development, the President said the Lusaka–Ndola dual carriageway was transforming the country’s road network.

“The Lusaka–Ndola dual carriageway looks like roads in London, and we are also working on other roads across the country,” he said.

President Hichilema also urged supporters to campaign vigorously for the ruling party.

 He discouraged voters from supporting independent parliamentary candidates, saying they would divide votes intended for the UPND.

“There is no need to vote for independent candidates because they will split the votes. I have also not sent any independent candidate to contest under the UPND, so they should not use my name during their campaigns,” Mr Hichilema said.

Ends.