By STEVEN ZANDE  –
Opposition UPND leader Hakainde Hichilema has recognised Edgar Lungu as President of Zambia, visiting Commonwealth Secretary General Patricia Scotland announced last night.
Ms Scotland told a Press conference in Lusaka the two men had agreed to a dialogue to resolve their differences under the auspices of her office.
Ms Scotland said during the talks, Mr Hichilema, who has consistently refused to recognise Mr Lungu as the Head of State after last year’s elections, had now done so.

HICHILEMA

In Zambia on Commonwealth business, Ms Scotland suggested the talks could start as soon as possible.
She said after the extensive separate talks with President Lungu and Mr Hichilema – currently in prison at Mukobeko Maximum Correctional pending trial on treason charges – the two parties had agreed to talks.
“I should make it clear that there is no impediment to the parties starting the talks as soon as possible. Both parties are willing to get on with the talks,” she said.
The two leaders also agreed to forget about the past and focus on the next general election.
She said Mr Hichilema was keen to have the talks expedited, especially on reforms ahead of the 2021 general election.
Ms Scotland ruled out the possibilities of the Commonwealth imposing sanctions of Zambia whatever the outcome of the agreed road map.
The Commonwealth respected the two parties’ ability to adhere to the agreement.
Ms Scotland has held talks with President Lungu and also held meetings with Mr Hichilema at Mukobeko Maximum Correctional facility on two occasions.
She said the discussions were genuine and extensive, expressing confidence that both parties would respect the agreed path to dialogue.
Ms Scotland said the two parties agreed to take necessary steps within their power to foster peace and public confidence in the agreement.
The dialogue, which would be completed and reviewed in 2019, would culminate in a roadmap for constitutional reforms that would be implemented ahead of the 2021 general elections.