Maravi

Prof Chirwa must be given support, says Kashita

Prof Chirwa must be given support, says Kashita
By Kombe Chimpinde
Mon 19 Nov. 2012, 15:50 CAT

ANDREW Kashita says Professor Clive Chirwa must be given the necessary support and space to transform the operations of Zambia Railways.

Commenting on President Michael Sata's appointment of Prof Chirwa as Zambia Railways chief executive officer, Kashita, who is also former works and supply minister, said he had no doubt that Prof Chirwa would deliver.

"I have no doubt that Professor Chirwa is an excellent and competent man for the job. I have confidence that he will transform the operations of the railway service which was destroyed by selfish people," Kashita said.

"It is also good that he is tied to a timetable (contract). I only hope that those people who have got their so-called favoured candidate, employee will not frustrate him. Let him sort out the problems that are there. I am quite sure that as he gets his job and sits in office, he will tell us the exact detail of what he intends to do."

Kashita hoped he would not experience the same disappointment he had when former Food Reserve Agency executive director David Matongo, whom he thought was the right man for the job was relieved of his duties within a short period of time.

"He went there, had a lot of competence but he never settled, he never sorted out the problems there and he never even told us what had happened. When Professor Chirwa comes on board, let us allow him to give us his plan. He is an engineer with drive and self-motivation," Kashita said.

"I am quite sure the communication and transport minister will be around to assist when he needs support in any particular area," he said.

He added that an effective and reliable railway service was vital in the country to reduce the cost of doing business that continues to rise.

Prof Chirwa has given himself three years to transform Zambia Railways.

Labels: ANDREW KASHITA, CLIVE CHIRWA, MICHAEL SATA, ZAMBIA RAILWAYS

posted by MrK @ 5:55 PM