Transport and Market Groups Back HH Ahead of August Polls

Bus drivers, tanker drivers, market traders and motorcycle riders have declared their support for President Hakainde Hichilema's candidature in the general election scheduled for 13 August.

Zambia National Marketeers Credit Association President Mupila Kameya said traders had experienced significant improvements under the current administration, noting that markets were previously dominated by political cadres, which he said created an atmosphere of intimidation. He added that the association's endorsement of President Hichilema was based on what it described as the restoration of peace, the rule of law and public order in markets.

Speaking on behalf of bus drivers, Shadreck Sinkala and Nicholas Banda commended the Government for maintaining stable fuel pump prices. They also welcomed the extension of the validity period for Public Service Vehicle (PSV) licences from three to five years, describing the move as beneficial to operators.

Bikers Association of Zambia representative Emmanuel Ng'uni said the organisation was backing President Hichilema's re-election bid, praising his leadership as inclusive.

Addressing the gathering, the President's Special Assistant for Finance and Investment, Jito Kayumba, said the country still had considerable development work ahead. He urged voters to support President Hichilema to ensure continuity of ongoing development programmes. Mr Kayumba added that the Government was working to reduce the cost of living through large-scale recruitment across various sectors.

UPND National Youth Chairperson Gilbert Liswaniso commended young people working in markets for maintaining peace in line with the President's appeal for calm before, during and after the elections. He also encouraged UPND aspiring candidates to prioritise young people, market traders and other community groups in empowerment initiatives if elected.

Meanwhile, UPND Lusaka mayoral aspirant Chitambala Mwewa pledged to work closely with market traders and bus drivers to improve cleanliness across the city should he be elected.

Patriotic Front President Miles Sampa also called on residents to vote for President Hichilema, citing the continuation of free education and the maintenance of peace in markets and bus stations as key reasons for his support.