By SARAH TEMBO –
A UNIVERSITY of Zambia (UNZA) lecturer, Alex Ngoma has urged the Patriotic Front (PF) to remain united and focused if it is to win the upcoming presidential by-election.
Dr Ngoma, a lecturer in the department of political and administrative studies, said senior PF members should not under-estimate the power of focus and unity as the party goes to the polls.
Dr Ngoma said in an interview that remaining united and focused was the only way the ruling party could continue managing national affairs after the demise of President Michael Sata.
“The late President was the unifying factor of the party and now that he is no more, it is important for the senior members to understand the fact that without unity it would be difficult for them to score political success,” Dr Ngoma said.
He said it was important for the PF to understand that as a party in Government it was setting the tone of the happenings in the country.
“Lack of peace, unity and stability in the ruling party is likely to spill over in the nation, something no Zambian wants to see,” he said.
Dr Ngoma also called on the Zambians to mourn President Sata in dignity as he was an extraordinary leader who was committed to develop the country.
He stated that the late president had left a mark on the Zambian environment due to unprecedented developments he undertook during his three-year rule.
He said the late President deserved a dignified send off.
Meanwhile, Zambia Development Conference (ZADECO) president Langton Sichone said it was unfortunate that President Sata could not complete his term of office, stating that if he did he would have spear-headed development to all areas.
“The late President had a great sense of humour and leadership which he combined effectively to the extent that he was able to plan and execute his duties equitably,” he said.
He said as an opposition leader, Mr Sata was vibrant and able to provide checks and balances.
Mr Sichone also called on Zambian’s to remain united as the country mourns the late President.