Turkish envoy refutes media reports he has endorsed HH

Turkish Ambassador to Zambia Ahmet Arda has refuted media reports that he has endorsed UPND president Hakainde Hichilema in the forthcoming general elections.

In a letter addressed to the Post Newspapers General Manager dated 25th February 25, 2016, Mr. Arda says the language used in the story was misleading.

Mr. Arda has clarified that he did not visit Mr. Hichilema but that he was invited by the UPND Leader for lunch and out of respect; he decided to honor the invitation.

He says his visit to the UPND Leader should not be taken as a sign of endorsing the UPND candidate in the forth coming general elections.

He adds that he did lead anyone to Mr. Hichilema’s residence as reported by the Post Newspapers but that beach diplomat was representing his or her own country.