(LUSAKATIMES) ULP advises govt on ZAMTEL privatisation

ULP advises govt on ZAMTEL privatisation
Tuesday, July 28, 2009, 21:18

THE opposition United Liberal Party (ULP) has advised government to handle the 75 per cent sale of Zamtel shares with cautious. Party President, Sakwiba Sikota, says there is need for government to ensure that the matter is handled in a transparent and accountable way, adding that it attracts the interest of many people.

Mr Sikota, who was speaking in an interview with ZANIS in Lusaka today, said before a strategic partner is found government needs to clearly explain to the pubic the benefits that the nation will have from the sale.

He said people in the country must understand the valuation process being carried and what kind of liabilities the company has.

He noted that government has also to be responsible enough to ensure that the welfare and interests of workers are well looked after.

Mr Sikota explained that government should put in place stringent measures aimed at making sure that there will be no unnecessary job cuts by the investor who will take over the operations of the company.

He stated that with the current global economic meltdown affecting many countries, people’s only sources of income, such as jobs, should be properly secured by he government.

He also challenged government to timely provide adequate information on the offer to both the public and trade unions for their evaluation and interventions.

Mr Sikota further charged that the prospects should also be made public, saying it is the only way Zambians will be given an opportunity to take part in such huge investment by bidding.

And in a separate interview the Committee of Citizens said it supports the decision by government to sale 75 percent of Zamtel shares, saying anything less will be unattractive to investors.

Committee Executive Director, Gregory Chifire, noted that the decision should be supported by all peace-loving Zambians as it aimed at bringing more investment in the country.

Mr Chifire disclosed that Zamtel has for a long time lagged behind, especially in infrastructural development, hence making it difficult for the company to compete favourably with other companies locally and internationally.

He advised government not to be arrogant but rather accommodate different views from various stakeholders on the matter before making a final decision.

Mr Chifire has also called on opposition political parties not to politicise the issue, adding that it is a national subject aimed at benefiting all Zambians.

President Rupiah Banda last week announced that government has resolved to sell 75 per cent shares of the Zambia Telecommunications Corporation (Zamtel) to a private equity partner and retain 25 per cent shares to enable the company operate profitably.

Speaking in Ndola when he addressed Zamtel management and employees, President Banda said the partial privatization of the company was the only way to resolve the financial problems the company was facing and enhance the viability of the company.

ZANIS