Split of two ministries received with mixed feelings

The decision by President Edgar Lungu to split some ministries into two has been received with mixed reactions.

President Lungu has indicated that he intends to split Ministries of Mines, Energy and Water Development and Transport, Works, Supply and Communications in order to improve operational efficiency.

Zambia Council for Social Development (ZCSD) Executive Secretary Lewis Mwape has told QFM News in an interview has wondered what the President has taken such a move when he promised continuity during the campaigns.

Mr. Mwape says the move is as good as having an opposition party in government despite Parliament approving the budget prepared by the PF government.

He says President Lungu should have waited until after the 2016 general elections instead of splitting the two ministries at a time when people want to see a small Cabinet.

And Operation Young Vote Executive Director Guess Nyirenda has told QFM News in a separate phone interview that President Lungu should also consider splitting the Ministry of Youth and Sport.

Mr. Nyirenda says the ministry in charge of youths should be independent from that of sports considering that the current system is concentrated on sports at expense of youth empowerment.

And Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) Governance Advisor Isaac Mwanza says if the separation of the two ministries is aimed at spearheading development in their respective sectors, the President’s move is welcome.

Mr. Mwanza however advised against having two or more deputy Ministers in the ministries.

Meanwhile, Political Activist Dante Saunders says it is clear that President Lungu’s move is aimed at giving ministerial and other senior positions to the people who helped him during the campaigns.