Lamba-Lima Chiefs Back HH for August 13 Polls

The Lamba-Lima Royal Council of Chiefs in Copperbelt Province has endorsed President Hakainde Hichilema as its preferred candidate in the August 13 General Election, citing what it described as significant development recorded under the New Dawn Government.

The traditional leaders said the country had made notable progress over the past five years and needed continuity in leadership to allow ongoing development programmes to be completed.

Speaking during a media briefing, Council Secretary Chief Kalunkumya said the endorsement was based on tangible achievements recorded under President Hichilema's administration.

He said the Government had transformed communities across Copperbelt Province and the rest of the country through the implementation of free education, the increase of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) from K1.6 million to K40 million per constituency, the reopening of mines, road rehabilitation projects and the expansion of health infrastructure.

Chief Kalunkumya also commended the Government for constructing chiefs' palaces, expanding the Social Cash Transfer and school feeding programmes, restoring university meal allowances and implementing the Cash for Work initiative.

Chief Kalunkumya said Zambia was "already pregnant" with progress, adding that the expected benefits would be realised if the current development agenda was allowed to continue.

"We call upon our people to support and vote for His Excellency Mr Hakainde Hichilema so that the development programmes and policies that are transforming and benefiting our communities may continue for the greater good of the Copperbelt Province," he said.

Chief Kalunkumya further said the Government had significantly reduced political violence and cadreism. He added that the council remained committed to working with Government to preserve cultural heritage.

Council Chairperson Chief Machiya said the UPND administration had strengthened unity among traditional leaders across the country, enabling chiefs to attend traditional ceremonies peacefully despite the election period.

Meanwhile, Chief Nkambo, through his representative Duwell Malipilo, said the anticipated benefits of the Government's programmes would be fully achieved during a second term of the UPND administration.