Zambia voted against war and not Russia- Mumba

New Hope Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD) Leader Nevers Mumba says Zambia’s yes vote at the united nations on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is the right thing to do, as it is consistent with the principles of Zambia’s foreign policy which was first formally codified in 1969.

The un general assembly overwhelmingly adopted a resolution demanding that Russia immediately end its military operations in Ukraine and Zambia voted for this resolution along with other 140 nations.

In a statement posted on his face-book page monitored by QTV news crew, Dr Mumba says the action by Russia has breached some of the principles which are enshrined in the un charter and the constitutive act of the African Union.

Dr. Mumba who once served as high commissioner to Canada says the decision by Zambia however does not imply that the country has turned its back against its all weather friend, Russia but rather rejected the proposition of war.

Dr. Mumba says the u-n has established mechanisms for addressing disputes, including that of security concerns, which Russia could have utilized, rather than to take unilateral direct action, as it did.

He says it’s only by standing on principle, and not on whether one is friend or foe, that the country can justify the positions it should take during such votes.

The opposition leader says Zambia is globally known as the country of peace, and any time they are presented with a choice between peace and war, Zambia will shall always choose peace.