. SATA

By SYLVESTER MWALE –
PRESIDENT Michael Sata has said his party’s victory in the three parliamentary by-elections held on Thursday reinforces the Government’s commitment to distribute development in all parts of the country.
The Patriotic Front (PF) scooped three out of five seats in Thursday’s by-elections while the opposition MMD and UPND won one apiece. All the seats won by the PF were previously held by the opposition.
In a statement released by Special Assistant for Press and Public Relations George Chellah yesterday, President Sata dedicated the victory in Zambezi West, Vubwi and Mkushi South to the people of Zambia.
“The people have made a clear choice against politics of hate and ill-will and have resolutely decided to vote for development and unison,” Mr Sata said.
“They have also freely shown that they are willing to side with a progressive movement that is committed to delivering inclusive growth.”
The Head of State said the people in the three constituencies had with certainty rejected opportunism and meaningless political rhetoric in preference for national development and unity.
He also praised supporters from all political parties that participated in the by-elections across the country for exhibiting impressive levels of restraint, humility and maturity.
President Sata said the Government remained committed to engaging progressive forces within the opposition in its quest to implement pro-poor measures that would culminate into speedy economic expansion,job creation and poverty reduction.
He also congratulated the opposition MMD and UPND for scooping the Kasenengwa and Solwezi Central seats, respectively.
Meanwhile, President Sata has sent a message of condolences to the Matoka family on the death of veteran politician, freedom fighter and academician Peter Matoka.
Mr Sata said he had learnt with a sense of grief and sadness the untimely death of Dr Matoka, who died in Lusaka on Friday.
“It is with deep sorrow that I offer my condolences to the Matoka family on the loss of this loyal and dedicated compatriot,” Mr Sata said.
In a statement released by Mr Chellah, President Sata said the late Dr Matoka rendered great service to the country across many spheres where he showed exemplary skill and talent.
“I remember Peter from our early days as teenagers, as a warm hearted, passionate and gifted leader. Peter has always been a trustworthy person at all stages of his life,” President Sata said.
“No doubt, our departed colleague gallantly served this country during his distinguished political and academic career.