Maravi

Cut down on costs, HH asks govt

Cut down on costs, HH asks govt
Written by Macheu Matenga-Chiwawa
Saturday, December 27, 2008 1:39:19 PM

UPND president Hakainde Hichilema has asked the government to cut costs in order to address Zambia's problems.Speaking on Radio Phoenix's Let the People Talk programme yesterday, Hichilema said the government must have the political will to institute measures that would cut unnecessary costs being accrued.

"When faced with a problem, before you ask others to bail you out, institute something that will bail you out," he advised.

Hichilema said large entourages should be done away with and the government should instead put in place an economic stimulus plan that would have all stakeholders involved.

"Don't focus on delegation travel and dance. Government officers should reduce on travelling outside the country and instead travel more to rural areas. Some ministers don't even know Kaputa. Take time to go round the rural areas and see where development is needed. This will greatly cut on costs because it is cheaper than travelling outside," he said.

Hichilema further advised that the number of political office holders should be trimmed.

"Don't lay off civil servants because these contribute to development. Cut the number of politicians, reduce the number of ministers. The public sector is there to run the government so there's no need for many ministers. Directors can do the work," he said.

Hichilema said such robust measures should include cutting salaries for the Cabinet ministers too.

"Going into government is not to earn a big salary. If you want a big salary, join the private sector," he advised.

"You'll find one minister has access to two vehicles, what for? That's extravagance! Government should cut on that."

Asked on the flamboyance that characterise most African leaders, Hichilema said flamboyance should be judged on the country’s ability to produce.

Hichilema further advised the government to target job creation in order to address Zambia's problems.

"Government should start with agriculture to create jobs. Government must invest in irrigation, both small-scale and large-scale. Irrigation, for small-scale farmers will help sustain the farmers. And large-scale irrigation will create jobs and help in having food security," said Hichilema.

Labels: EXPENDITURE SYSTEMS, HAKAINDE HICHILEMA

posted by MrK @ 1:40 PM