Opposition United Prosperous and Peaceful Zambia (UPPZ) leader, Charles Chanda, has urged political leaders to refrain from involving chiefs in political matters, citing the importance of maintaining the integrity and autonomy of traditional authorities.
Mr. Chanda has expressed concern over the growing trend of politicizing traditional leadership, noting that some chiefs appear to be pressured into endorsing certain political agendas.
In a statement to RCV News today, Mr. Chanda emphasized that it is crucial that traditional leaders are allowed to remain neutral, including in what he termed as politically motivated arrests that undermine the country’s democracy.
“They have a sacred role in guiding their communities, and their subjects deserve the freedom to make independent choices without outside influence,” said Mr. Chanda.
Mr. Chanda said it is the responsibility of political leaders to protect the sanctity of traditional structures.
He said Chiefs should not be placed in positions where they feel compelled to take sides as doing so risks their credibility and the trust bestowed upon them by their people.
By Margaret Mwanza
