Renowned Lawyer Dickson Jere has appealed for urgent reforms in the way Zambian cities are being planned.
Jere, who once served as Special Assistant to Fourth Republican President Rupiah Banda, emphasised that planners should resist political pressure when approving projects.
He stressed that rampant subdivisions of land without proper sewerage and water systems are creating serious public health concerns.
Jere observed that the practice of regularising illegal plots for political expediency has contributed to flooding, poor drainage and outbreaks of cholera.
“We cannot have a country of boreholes at every household,” declared Jere, underscoring the need for proper infrastructure.
He further highlighted the absurdity of allocating plots to churches directly opposite bars and nightclubs, calling for modern concepts of development.
Jere also commended the Zambia Institute of Planners for hosting him as keynote speaker, while noting that professionals who challenge political demands often face transfers or dismissals.