Chief Government Spokesperson Kennedy Sakeni is dismayed by the hypocrisy of former cabinet ministers who now are serving in the opposition.
Mr. Sakeni has regretted that some former cabinet ministers are deliberately misleading the nation on matters which they are familiar with.
Mr. Sakeni says former Works and Supply Minister in the MMD government and Peoples’ Party president, Mike Mulongoti is misleading the public on the constitution especially on holding of a by-election in the country.
He said this in a press statement released to ZANIS in Lusaka today.
Mr. Sakeni, who is also Minister of Information and Broadcasting Services said by-elections are a constitutional expenditure and un-avoided.
“Government is dismayed at the hypocrisy displayed by the likes of Mr. Mulongoti who at one time served as a parliamentarian and cabinet minister who deliberately opts to mislead the nation on straight-forward issues which he is familiar with. By elections are a constitutional expenditure which are un-foreseen and un-avoidable. Why was it legal then and illegal now?” Mr. Sakeni asked.
He stressed that the current constitution provides that a by election is held within a period of 90 days when a vacancy occurs for an elected Member of Parliament (MP) adding that people have the right to be represented at all times as per law established.
Mr Sakeni said by-elections have been part of the Zambian political culture for many years now and therefore the question of illegal funding does not arise.
He reminded Mr. Mulongoti that funding for constitutional activities has been legal and rubbished insinuations by the former minister.
The Minister said the Patriotic Front Government reiterates its total commitment to good governance, the rule of law and prudent management of public resources for the betterment of the Zambians.