. Dr Kaunda

By DELPHINE ZULU and MOFFAT CHAZINGWA – 

FIRST Republican President Kenneth Kaunda has urged political parties to support each other in to preserve freedom and peace Zambians have been enjoying.

Dr Kaunda said all political parties should cooperate with one another for the sake of development and peace.

The former Head of State was speaking during his 90 years birthday dinner organised by the United National Independence Party (UNIP) at Kenneth Kaunda House on Saturday night.

Dr Kaunda ruled the country for 27 years under UNIP, from 1964 up to 1991.

“To all political parties, let us remind each other that our neighbour may be together with us in our party or outside, but all are made in God’s image. So let’s cooperate with those within our parties and outside. We are all brothers and sisters,” Dr Kaunda said.

The First Republican President who turns 90 today, said the ‘One Zambia, One Nation’, slogan was meant for all Zambians.

Dr Kaunda said everyone should actively practice love and respect and emphasised that messages of love should always be preached in various political parties.

“To those who have organised this dinner, and all who have done activities to remember my 90 years, I say I cannot fully thank you, God will continue to bless you abundantly,” he said.

He said the messages of love should also embrace HIV/AIDS patients as well as those with disabilities who needed everyone’s support.

He urged Zambians to continue embracing the ‘Tiyende Pamodzi’ song as it signified working together for development.

Dr Kaunda said Zambia was founded on the vision that all were equal citizens in the nation despite religion, race and tribe.

He said this was the time for great reflection and appreciation for Zambia’s 50 years of Independence.

Meanwhile, Veteran politician Vernon Mwaanga has called on Zambians to build on the good track record Dr Kaunda has established for the nation.

Mr Mwaanga said Dr Kaunda established a good track record for the country in terms of national unity based on his ‘One Zambia, One Nation’ philosophy.