Chanda urges ECL to transition into Statesman role
Mr. Chanda, who referred to Lungu as a “political father,” said the former Head of State has already made his mark and should now step back to allow a new generation of leaders to emerge.
“President Lungu is not getting any younger,” Chanda said. “Leadership is about succession. He has worked with many people and knows their capabilities. He just needs to identify someone and support them. That, to me, would be the best way forward.”
Mr. Chanda has argued that continuing to hold on to Lungu as the party’s only hope for leadership is doing him a disservice.
“Those who are clinging to him, thinking he’s the only one who can be President, are not doing him any favors. They did the same with President Rupiah Banda and Dr. Kenneth Kaunda and the end result was the same. They overburdened men who had already run their race,” he said.
He has insisted that his remarks stem from respect and admiration, not opposition.
“When we say these things, it’s not because we love him less in fact, it’s because we love him more,” Chanda said. “I’d be happy to see him take on a regional or international role, mediating conflicts and using his experience in diplomacy. Running a country for seven years is no small task.”
Addressing possible criticism from within his party, Mr. Chanda has dismissed suggestions that his views reflect disloyalty or political realignment.
“Some will say I’ve been bribed by President Hakainde Hichilema or that I’ve betrayed the party. But only the short-sighted would see it that way. When we speak on these matters, it’s because we mean well,” he said.
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