By Francis Chipalo
Citizens First (CF) leader Harry Kalaba has charged that the country is on auto – pilot, stating that President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration has failed to manage the affairs of the nation.
And Kalaba has called for unity among the opposition, CSOs, the clergy and student bodies in order to ‘reset’ the country, adding that his party is more than ready to take over from the UPND.
Speaking at a media briefing earlier today, Kalaba disclosed that he has faced attacks from some members of the opposition following his decision to pull out from an alliance, a situation he described as unfortunate.
He said in order to remove the UPND from government in 2026, unity is key among the opposition, further stating that Zambians should be prioritized as key drivers of the economy.
Meanwhile, Kalaba has accused the ruling party of mismanaging the affairs of the nation such as cost of living.
He said despite the 2024/2025 farming season providing significant relief as far as production of maize is concerned, it is unrealistic for the UPND to demand for a reduction of commodity prices without addressing key contributing issues.
“Our concern lies in government’s failure to provide cheaper farming inputs to the small scale farmers who themselves feed the nation,” Kalaba said.
And the opposition leader further stated that instead of dealing with the supply chain where originating costs are relatively higher, it is unacceptable for government officials threatening outlets to reduce the cost of mealie meal.
“We call upon government to take corrective measures and ensure that they manage the cost of production as doing so is what will give a true reflection in the cost of mealie meal,” he added.
The UPND media director under Presidential Support System, Frank Bwalya on Monday, urged the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) to ensure that Zambians are not exploited with higher commodity prices especially for mealie meal.
Bwalya cited Livingston where it has been reported that mealie meal prices are reportedly to be reducing, adding that Zambians should feel reductions and efforts being mage by government in easing cost of living.