Maravi

Mpombo counsels govt over acquittal

Mpombo counsels govt over acquittal
Written by Henry Chibulu in Mazabuka
Monday, August 31, 2009 3:56:22 PM

FORMER defence minister George Mpombo has advised the government to stop issuing reckless statements on the acquittal of Frederick Chiluba.Featuring on Radio Mazabuka's Live wire programme, Mpombo said the government's reckless statements on Chiluba's acquittal had the potential to divide the nation.

Mpombo said there was need for the government to handle Chiluba's acquittal in a manner that would be acceptable to the citizens and in turn unite the country. Mpombo advised the government to avoid taking an antagonistic path.

He warned that if not properly handled, the matter involving Chiluba could affect the country's economic and social development.

Mpombo said the statements issued by some government leaders prior to Chiluba's judgment could have to a large extent influenced the outcome of the case.

And Mpombo urged the government to reconcile with the Roman Catholic Church.

He said attacks on the Catholic Church were unacceptable and misplaced.

Mpombo said the government should pursue a consultative process and avoid antagonising one particular church.

Mpombo warned that an attack on the church was an attack on all Catholics, saying such a scenario was not healthy for the country.

But chief government spokesperson, Lieutenant General Ronnie Shikapwasha dismissed Mpombo's remarks.

Lt Gen Shikapwasha said Zambia was a democracy which allowed divergent views as evidenced by the debate on those against and in support of Chiluba's acquittal.

He said the Judiciary operated independently and that Zambians should accept and respect Chiluba's acquittal.

Lt Gen Shikapwasha said it was surprising that Patriotic Front (PF) leader Michael Sata accused the government of influencing the outcome of Chiluba's case and yet he had been acquitted before by the same courts and no one raised questions.

"People should learn to accept the fact that the Judiciary in court is independent. We know that some people wanted to see the former president go to jail," Lt Gen Shikapwasha said.

On Mpombo's comments on the Catholic Church and the need for government to take a consultative approach, Lt Gen Shikapwasha maintained that the statement he issued in Parliament still stands.

Labels: CHILUBA, GEORGE MPOMBO, RUPIAH BANDA

posted by MrK @ 2:58 PM