Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
The United Party for National Development has distanced itself from the tribal remarks uttered by Southern Province Minister Daniel Mukombwe during a rally addressed by UPND leader Hakainde Hichilema in Choma yesterday.
UPND Campaign Manager Dipak Patel says any appeal made to voters based on tribe is rejected by the UPND campaign.
Mr Patel says the foundation of the UPND message has always been one of national unity, inclusiveness and equality.
He says the UPND campaign team is encouraging Zambians to vote for Mr Hichilema because of his desire to serve all Zambians,his track record as an economic manager and successful farmer, his Christian values and his opposition to tribal and panga politics.
meanhwile UPND President Hakainde Hichilema has pledged to strengthen Zambia’s relations with countries in the region once elected president in next Tuesday’s election.
Mr Hichilema notes that Zambia’s friendships with her neighbours have grown distant and somewhat isolated to the disadvantage of the country.
He says Zambia’s relations with regional neighbours are not just a matter of friendship and good manners.
Mr Hichilema explains that these same countries can be Zambia’s business partners; because they are ready markets for export right on the doorstep.
He states that the UPND in government t wants to create an environment in which Zambian businesses can take full advantage of the opportunities in the region.
He adds that looking beyond the region and beyond Africa, Zambia must make itself heard.
The UPND leader says Zambia has an important role to play as a peace-loving democracy endowed with natural resources, beautiful landscapes and a young population ready to drive the country forward.
Mr Hichilema has also promised that he will not be taking with him big delegations abroad at the expense of the Zambian taxpayer every time an international event pops up.
He says the UPND Government will work on the basis of what is necessary and what is advantageous for the Zambian people and the region.
He says this is in order to preserve revenues that can be better invested in areas that will deliver greater benefit, such as education and providing support to local businesses.
Mr Hichilema adds that whilst encouraging investment in Zambia, they will keep the interests of the people at the heart of every deal they make.
He explains that this will secure only the best projects for Zambia, and those that provide additional revenues for spending on education and healthcare, create jobs and generate opportunities for Zambian businesses.