By Francis Chipalo
The Organised People’s Party – OPP says the stalled $1.5B health agreement between Zambia and the USA must be tabled in Parliament for debate and ratification before signing.
OPP President Dr Brian Mushimba said while the party supports improved healthcare, the manner in which government has handled the deal raises concerns about transparency and national interest.
“Agreements of this nature should always be debated openly in Parliament and ratified by the House. There must be robust, open discussion, followed by a vote on agreements of this nature and consequence,” Dr Mushimba said.
The USA cancelled previous health support to Zambia citing corruption, and is now asking for increased Zambian contribution, including access to critical minerals, under a “no free stuff anymore” policy.
Dr Mushimba argued that critical minerals are generational wealth for Zambians and should not be traded without full public disclosure of terms, independent audits, and guarantees for local value addition and jobs.
“When we form the next government, parliamentary oversight on such matters will be non-negotiable. Citizens ought to be part of every decision that impacts them or their country significantly. Power belongs to them,” he said.
The OPP has called on government to immediately publish the full agreement text and allow Parliamentary debate before any ratification.
