Govt Addresses Key Issues
Hon. Cornelius Mweetwa, Minister of Information and Media and Chief Government Spokesperson, addressed various issues and provided insights into the government’s stance on critical matters.
Minister Mweetwa emphasized that while the opposition in Zambia is entitled to their opinions, they should refrain from claiming to represent the majority of Zambians.
He urged opposition leaders to exercise humility when speaking on behalf of the people, emphasizing the roles of Council members and Parliamentarians in representing the public.
The Minister asserted that Zambia maintains its democratic space, citing the coverage of political gatherings by the Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) as evidence of the government’s commitment to transparency.
Highlighting significant progress in debt restructuring efforts, Hon. Mweetwa refuted claims of government inaction. He noted that Zambia is among the first countries to benefit from debt relief due to prompt action in petitioning for debt restructuring.
The Minister assured the public of the government’s commitment to completing debt restructuring expeditiously.
The international trips undertaken by President Hakainde Hichilema were described as valuable for fostering business opportunities, showcasing the government’s dedication to economic development.
Expressing concern over calls by opposition leaders for groups to rally against the economic situation, Minister Mweetwa attributed the current Kwacha depreciation to decreased foreign currency inflows and a decline in copper production.
The Chief Government Spokesperson announced that Konkola Copper Mine (KCM) has pledged to pay outstanding bills totaling 220 million US dollars to suppliers.
He cited the ramping up of copper production at KCM and Mopani Copper Mine, along with diversifying toward agriculture, as solutions to the exchange rate issue.
The government anticipates lifting the export ban in the coming months, contributing to Zambia’s foreign exchange inflows. Minister Mweetwa highlighted this as a positive step toward economic stability.
