The Zambian Economist
State House has expressed concern over the growing use of derogatory language in Zambia’s political discourse, warning that personal attacks are crowding out the policy debate voters need ahead of the August general elections.
State House Chief Communications Specialist Clayson Hamasaka says it is unfortunate that some opposition figures, including Socialist Party leader Fred M’membe, continue to describe President Hakainde Hichilema in derogatory terms instead of presenting alternative policy ideas to the electorate.
Speaking to Phoenix News, Mr. Hamasaka said some opposition leaders have for years demonstrated open hostility towards President Hichilema and the United Party for National Development (UPND), adding that their position on the head of state has remained unchanged since the party’s days in opposition.
He said the use of demeaning language in politics reflects poorly on those making such remarks, and should not be allowed to distract from the need for issue-based campaigning as the country moves towards the polls.
Mr. Hamasaka added that the Zambian people will ultimately determine whether the conduct of opposition leaders amounts to a winning strategy or a political setback at the ballot.
His remarks follow comments by Dr. M’membe on a radio programme in Southern Province, in which the Socialist Party leader likened President Hichilema to a dumpsite and questioned why Zambians would want to “recycle” him by handing him another mandate.
The exchange comes at a point in the electoral cycle when campaign rhetoric traditionally sharpens, and it renews a long-running debate in Zambian politics over where the line falls between robust political criticism and language that erodes public discourse.
