. Banda

By SYLVESTER MWALE –
FORUM for Democratic Process (FODEP) says former president Rupiah Banda has taken a political gamble that could subject him to a heavier humiliation than the one he suffered in 2011.
FODEP executive director, McDonald Chipenzi said while Mr Banda was exercising his democratic right, his decision to contest the presidency in the January 20, 2015 election had many implications on him.
The former president has sparked debate and controversy after the MMD national executive committee (NEC) adopted him to contest next January’s election at the expense of party leader Nevers Mumba.
Dr Mumba, who has since been granted a court injunction restraining the party from interfering with his operations, has called on party members to ignore the adoption of Mr Banda.
On the other hand, the Government is contemplating to withdraw Mr Banda’s pension on account that he has returned to active politics, which contradicts the law.
Mr Chipenzi said Mr Banda risked suffering a bigger humiliation than his experience in 2011 because the political dynamics had changed from the time he lost power.
“Mr Banda, as a citizen, has every right to contest the elections so long the MMD agrees to adopt him,” said Mr Chipenzi in an interview.
“But he must realise that his comeback has many implications on the terminal benefits. He has done a gamble and he hopes that even if the Government withdraws his benefits, he will recoup it if he wins.”
Mr Chipenzi said Mr Banda had served the country diligently and one would hope that he would continue enjoying his status as a former head of State.
He reminded Mr Banda that the political landscape in Zambia was no longer the same as in 2011, hence the need to be cautious before rushing into contesting the polls.
“Mr Banda may have been given a wrong advice, but he has experience to have good judgment at the end. Therefore, we hope his comeback is not for more humiliation,” he said.