Maravi

Rupiah likely to lose polls, says Mukungu

Rupiah likely to lose polls, says Mukungu
By Misheck Wangwe in Kitwe
Thu 12 May 2011, 04:01 CAT

PRESIDENT Rupiah Banda is likely to lose this year’s elections because he is surrounded by insincere people, according to a former MMD official.

In an interview, Richard Mukungu, who is former MMD Kalulushi district chairman, said it would not be possible for the MMD to influence the minds of people who have resolved to change government.

Mukungu said President Banda’s government had lost credibility because of its failure to deliver the much-needed development especially for the rural population.

“People now look at the MMD as a failed government because the current leaders have departed from the initial ideals of the party. The people surrounding the President are full of deceit,” Mukungu said.

“They are lying to him that his policies are being appreciated and are liked by many when the situation on the ground is different.

Many people are disappointed with him because the standard of living has deteriorated. The failure to alleviate poverty is the reason why the MMD will lose the elections.”

He said many people were disappointed with President Banda’s government because of its failure to embrace the interests of the people on matters of governance.

Mukungu said the MMD government had made wrong decisions and people felt betrayed on many issues such as the constitution-making process, the fight against corruption and its refusal to reintroduce windfall tax for the mines.

He said many Zambians were looking for a Republican president that would side with the people on issues that affect the nation and foster the much-needed development.

“I urge the people to secure their voters’ cards and vote wisely because the MMD is busy making schemes to gain popularity. Surely we cannot continue to be led by a government that has failed us.

There is no employment for young people and the fertiliser support programme in rural areas is just mere political rhetoric. Our people don’t receive this fertiliser because it is always politicised. We deserve better leaders as a nation,” Mukungu said.

posted by MrK @ 12:44 PM