MATHEWS MALAZIKA
Lusaka
FORMER Vice-President Enoch Kavindele has described Katele Kalumba’s remarks and threats against President Hakainde Hichilema as despicable, especially coming from a former Cabinet minister.
Mr Kavindele said that regardless of any disagreements, the office of the President commands respect at all costs.
In a video circulating across various social media platforms, Dr Kalumba makes disparaging remarks and issues threats against President Hichilema.
The video is believed to have been recorded prior to the 13 August general election.
The former minister was arrested last Thursday for cyber harassment.
In an interview, Mr Kavindele said Dr Kalumba’s conduct is unacceptable and should be condemned by all citizens.
“I was deeply shocked by what this man said. Kalumba’s behaviour is despicable and falls far short of what is expected of someone who held the position of Finance Minister in this country,” he said.
Mr Kavindele said the remarks directed at President Hichilema should never have been made by a person of Dr Kalumba’s standing.
He reminded Dr Kalumba that President Hichilema had exercised his executive powers to pardon him, making such hostile utterances a deeply regrettable response.
Dr Kalumba was released from prison on medical grounds in August 2023 after serving less than a year of his five-year sentence.
In December 2022, the Supreme Court upheld the 2010 conviction of Dr Kalumba and three others, who had been sentenced to five years’ imprisonment with hard labour for corrupt practices.
“Even if you lack regard for the individual holding the presidency, the office itself must be respected,” Mr Kavindele said, urging citizens to refrain from insults and exercise freedom of speech responsibly. https://enews.daily-mail.co.zm/welcome/home
