President Hakainde Hichilema has urged Zambians calling for regime change to pursue progress through productive work rather than confrontation. Speaking during a national address, he cautioned that attempts to stir conflict over minor issues only invite instability at a time when the country needs focus and discipline.
The President noted the extent of personal hostility directed at him and expressed concern that such sentiments had taken root in public discourse. He stressed that disagreements should not escalate into destruction of property or loss of life, and questioned why some protests continue to turn violent. He warned that those who choose street clashes risk meeting stronger resistance.
Responding to familiar political accusations, President Hichilema dismissed claims that he had “sold Zambia,” describing them as unfounded and part of a recurring pattern of misinformation. He also criticised the rising negativity in religious spaces, saying the church should not be used as a platform for hostility.
In a lighter remark, he referred to himself as “shushu number one,” a phrase he used to describe himself as the leading observer of national affairs.
The President outlined a series of development initiatives, including the installation of solar power plants in every constituency. He said the country was making progress in resolving electricity shortages and pointed to the reopening of long-dormant mines, such as the 47-year-old Kalengwa mine. He highlighted new export activity, including a rail consignment of mealie-meal to the Democratic Republic of Congo, as evidence of advancing economic recovery.
He reminded citizens that his administration introduced free education even before securing debt restructuring, and noted that Zambia has reduced government expenditure by foregoing trips to the United Nations General Assembly. He encouraged the public to adopt a responsible approach to savings and to avoid cultivating hatred.
Addressing supporters of the ruling UPND, President Hichilema urged restraint and recalled that he previously discouraged retaliation after the political clashes of August 2021. He repeated his call for non-violence, saying he did not want to preside over any loss of life.
He closed his address with an appeal for unity, stating that the government is working to create opportunity across the country and to build a more stable and prosperous Zambia.
