Henry Kyambalesa

1. Introduction 

Trade is an essential element in a country’s quest for heightened socioeconomic development.

Violations of human rights and freedoms, as Derechos Human Rights (2008) has noted, take many forms, among which include genocide, slavery, torture, mass disappearances of individuals, denial of the freedom of speech, and repudiation of freedom of the press.

Zambia is currently experiencing serious socioeconomic problems.

In November 2014, Acting President Guy L. Scott signed Statutory Instrument No. 63 of 2014 that raised the retirement age from 55 to 65 years, or 35 years of service.

In Zambia today, it has become common practice for employers to hire employees on part-time and temporary conditions of employment.

I am greatly troubled by President Edgar Lungu’s threats that he will “crush” members of the Patriotic Front who have dissenting views, and/or those who have reservations about the manner in which he is discharging his duties as Patriotic Front President and as President of the Republic of Zambia

1. INTRODUCTION

In an article prior to the 20 January 2015 presidential by-election, I urged my fellow Zambians not to vote for Mr. Hakainde Hichilema and the current Republican president, Mr. Edgar Lungu, due to a number of reasons.

Eleven of our fellow citizens are contesting the Republican presidency in the forthcoming by-election, and they are already on the campaign trail touting their visions for our beloved country.

There is no shortage of financiers with personal, corporate, partisan and/or shady external interests who are willing to provide financial support to political parties and their candidates, especially during political campaigns.