By KASONDE KASONDE –
UNITED Progressive Peoples (UPP) Party president Saviour Chishimba has condemned opposition political parties that have continued to issue statements suggesting that the electoral process in Zambia was flawed and that they would not accept poll results.
Dr Chishimba said that it was wrong for some opposition politicians to consistently state that there were possibilities of rigging the election.
He said there was an opposition political party leader who had even gone to the extent of giving notice that he would not accept the results.
Dr Chishimba said it was unfortunate that some politicians would not accept a loss because they were destined to win this time around.
“To them any loss in the fourth coming elections signify rigging in favour of the winner, such leaders have arrogated to themselves the notion that the verdict of the electorate is not consequential only their sole wish is,” he said.
He was speaking in Lusaka yesterday at the launch of the UPP foreign policy 2017-2021 document.
Dr Chishamba said while it was undeniable that there were many methods that the Patriotic Front (PF) could use to tamper with the electoral process, the UPP had confidence that the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) would deliver a credible election.
He said the country could rely on the ECZ because it was an upright institution that could not serve the interests of the ruling party.
The UPP president said the statements issued by some opposition political parties had the potential to discourage foreign investment.
Dr Chishimba said his government would stand ready to contribute to any international effort designed to enhance world peace and security.
He said the general focus of a UPP led government foreign policy would be on regaining Zambia’s leadership status in international diplomacy in Southern Africa and a force for good in Africa and the world.