Operation Young Vote (OYV) Executive Director Guess Nyirenda has expressed concern over the growing trend of absentee Members of Parliament who only remember their constituencies when the campaign season returns.
His remarks follow a viral video on social media in which church congregants expressed ignorance about knowing their Member of Parliament in the presence of President Hakainde Hichilema.
Mr. Nyirenda says that it is so unfortunate that constituencies are subjected to waiting for five years to see their representatives
“It is our hope and belief that what transpired in Kwacha to the sitting area MP has sent lessons to the other 155 constituencies and the national leaders, that representation is not a seasonal duty, but that it is a full-time responsibility, by both those that offer themselves or those imposed on the people for it”, said Mr. Nyirenda in a statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today.
He highlighted that absentee leadership undermines development, erodes trust, and betrays the very mandate given to a representative by the people who remain rights holders at every point.
Mr. Nyirenda has since demanded that elected representatives show up without any option, stay engaged, and deliver, as citizens deserve leaders who are present, accountable, and responsive to their daily struggles, not occasional visitors seeking votes.
By Christabel Kamunu
