Democratic Progressive Party - DPP

MWANZA CALLS FOR RETHINK OF FORMER LEADERS’ BENEFITS BILL

LUSAKA — Concerns are mounting over the proposed Former Presidents and Vice-Presidents Benefits Bill, 2026, with Antonio Mourinho Mwanza urging government to reconsider excessive provisions in the legislation.

Mr. Mwanza, president of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), said the Bill requires “serious national reflection,” stressing that while former leaders deserve dignity in retirement, the current proposals go beyond reasonable limits.

“There is no dispute that former Presidents and Vice-Presidents deserve dignity in retirement,” Mr. Mwanza said. “The offices they hold carry immense responsibility, and it is both proper and necessary that the Republic guarantees their security and basic welfare after leaving office.”

However, he cautioned that dignity should not be equated with excessive benefits.

“Dignity must never be confused with excess,” he said, noting that the Bill proposes tax-free lifetime earnings at 80 percent of the incumbent’s salary, state-funded executive houses or substantial cash alternatives and a wide range of benefits including vehicles, staff, travel, and security.

Mr. Mwanza warned that such provisions raise “serious concerns about sustainability, equity and national priorities,” particularly in the current economic climate.

“At a time when many Zambians face economic hardship, when public services remain under strain and when fiscal space is limited, it is difficult to justify such expansive and permanent obligations on the Consolidated Fund,” he said. “These are not symbolic provisions–they are long-term commitments borne by taxpayers.”

He further argued that the Bill creates an imbalance between political office holders and other public servants.

“Teachers, nurses, civil servants, and members of the security services dedicate decades of service, yet retire under far more modest conditions,” Mr. Mwanza said. “It is therefore reasonable to ask: what principle justifies such a wide disparity?”

Mr. Mwanza also expressed concern about the broader implications of the proposed benefits, warning that they could undermine public trust.

“Leadership must remain a duty of service—not a pathway to guaranteed lifelong privilege,” he said. “Excessive post-office rewards risk eroding public trust and weakening the moral foundation of public service.”

He maintained that the Bill, in its current form, “expands entitlements rather than aligning them with Zambia’s economic realities,” and called for a more balanced approach.

“What Zambia needs is a balanced approach–one that guarantees dignity without promoting excess, aligns benefits with fiscal capacity, ensures fairness across public service and upholds the principle of servant leadership,” he said.

Mr. Mwanza emphasized that the issue goes beyond policy and touches on national values.

“This is not just a policy issue–it is a moral question about the kind of Republic we are building: one grounded in equity, responsibility, and shared sacrifice,” he said.

He has since called for wider consultations and revisions to the Bill.

“We therefore call for broader consultation, careful reconsideration, and necessary refinement of this Bill,” Mr. Mwanza said.

“The strength of a democracy lies not in how it rewards its leaders, but in how fairly it treats all its citizens,” he added.

HANDOUTS ARE UNDERMINING GOVERNANCE, WARNS DPP LEADER

LUSAKA – Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) president Antonio Mourinho Mwanza has criticised the growing culture of handout politics, warning that it is undermining effective leadership and governance in the country.

Mr. Mwanza said the country’s political landscape had degenerated into a system where leadership was reduced to “handouts and empty spectacles,” rather than serious engagement on policy and national development.

He observed that many aspiring mayors and Members of Parliament were no longer campaigning on ideas or solutions, but instead resorting to short-term gestures aimed at winning public favour.

“Today, aspiring mayors and MPs don’t campaign on ideas, policies, or solutions. They go to markets, dish out a few notes, sponsor a football tournament and call it leadership,” he said.

Mr. Mwanza lamented the lack of vision and seriousness among political actors, arguing that such practices were directly contributing to poor performance in councils and Parliament.

He questioned the outcomes of electing leaders who, according to him, were never challenged to think critically or articulate meaningful plans.

“What do we expect from leaders who were never required to think, plan, or articulate anything beyond handouts?” Mr. Mwanza asked.

The DPP leader further stated that the problem extended beyond individual politicians, describing it as a systemic issue rooted in poverty.

“This is not just a failure of politicians–it is a system built on poverty and sustained by it,” he said.

He noted that economic hardships made citizens more vulnerable to immediate incentives, which politicians often exploit instead of addressing underlying challenges.

“When people are struggling to survive, immediate relief becomes more powerful than long-term solutions. Politicians know this, and instead of solving poverty, they exploit it,” Mr. Mwanza said.

Mr. Mwanza stressed that handouts should not be mistaken for development, insisting that governance required structured policies and measurable outcomes.

“But let’s be clear: handouts are not development. Charity is not governance. A football tournament is not a policy agenda,” he said.

He emphasised that true leadership involved addressing key sectors such as markets, public services, infrastructure, and job creation.

“Leadership is about fixing markets, improving services, building infrastructure, creating jobs, and delivering measurable change. It requires competence, vision, and accountability–not theatrics,” he said.

Mr. Mwanza urged citizens to demand higher standards from their leaders, warning that failure to do so would perpetuate poor governance.

He challenged both leaders and voters to reflect on the sustainability of current political practices.

“The question is simple: after the handouts are finished and the tournaments are over–what next?” he asked.

Live with Antonio Mourinho Mwanza at 10am tomorrow📌

UNZASU URGED TO REMAIN NON-PARTISAN TO PROTECT STUDENT INTERESTS

Former University of Zambia Students Union (UNZASU) president, Antonio Mourinho Mwanza, has cautioned against turning the student body into a political tool, warning that such a shift would undermine its credibility and purpose.

Mr Mwanza said UNZASU was established to serve all students at the University of Zambia, regardless of their political beliefs or backgrounds and not to advance the interests of political parties.

He stressed that once the union becomes partisan, it ceases to function as a representative body and instead risks becoming an extension of external political forces.

He explained that a partisan student union would struggle to represent the interests of the entire student population, as it would inevitably begin to take sides.

According to Mr Mwanza, this would lead to a breakdown of trust among students and ultimately weaken the union’s legitimacy.

Mr Mwanza further warned that political involvement in student structures often comes with hidden motives, noting that political actors typically seek influence, recruitment opportunities and control rather than acting in the best interest of students.

He said such interference shifts accountability away from students and toward political sponsors.

He added that under such circumstances, critical student concerns–including sanitation, accommodation, academic conditions and overall welfare–risk being sidelined or manipulated for political convenience.

Mr Mwanza emphasised that for UNZASU to remain effective, it must uphold independence and be guided by facts, student needs, and principles rather than party affiliations.

He stated that the union’s strength lies in its credibility as the genuine voice of students.

He warned that once UNZASU loses its credibility, it loses its ability to effectively represent and advocate for students.

PRESS STATEMENT FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The sanitation crisis at University of Zambia is not just a matter of inconvenience it is a national disgrace and a glaring indictment of failed leadership, negligence, and misplaced priorities. This is the highest institution of learning in our country, a symbol of intellectual growth and national pride, yet today it stands as a health hazard to the very young minds it is meant to nurture.

The first question any reasonable citizen must ask is: how long has this situation been allowed to deteriorate to such alarming levels? Sanitation systems do not collapse overnight. This is a result of prolonged neglect, poor maintenance, and a lack of accountability. Reports must have been made students, lecturers, and staff cannot possibly have endured such conditions in silence. If these concerns were raised, then where was the response from those entrusted with authority? Where was the urgency from the Ministry responsible for higher education? Where was the government when this crisis was slowly unfolding?

Let us be clear: a broken sewer system is not a minor issue. It is a direct threat to human life. Exposure to raw sewage brings with it the risk of deadly diseases such as cholera, dysentery, and other infections that can spread rapidly in densely populated environments like a university. Are we, as a nation, prepared to wait for an outbreak before taking action? Must lives be lost before leadership wakes up?

It is deeply troubling that while we constantly hear about the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and its supposed impact on communities, there is little to no visible benefit when it comes to critical institutions like UNZA. What meaningful development has CDF brought to the university? Where are the investments in infrastructure, in sanitation, in student welfare? It appears that funds meant to uplift communities are being misdirected or poorly managed, leaving essential institutions to crumble.

What is even more disheartening is the political hypocrisy surrounding this issue. When elections approach, politicians flock to UNZA. They address students, make grand promises, and seek support from the very young people they now seem to have abandoned. But when the university faces a crisis of this magnitude, those same leaders are nowhere to be seen. Silence replaces promises. Absence replaces accountability.

This is unacceptable. It reflects a broader culture of reactive rather than proactive governance a tendency to act only when public pressure becomes unbearable. But leadership is not about reacting to crises; it is about preventing them. It is about safeguarding the welfare of citizens at all times, not just during campaign seasons.

As a country, we must demand better. We must demand immediate, decisive action. The continued operation of the university under such hazardous conditions is irresponsible and dangerous. The government must take the bold step of temporarily closing the institution if necessary, not as a punishment, but as a protective measure. The health and safety of students and staff must come first.

At the same time, a comprehensive and transparent plan must be put in place to address the root causes of this crisis. This includes rehabilitating the sewer system, investing in modern infrastructure, and establishing strict accountability mechanisms to ensure such negligence never happens again. Those responsible for this failure whether through action or inaction,must be held accountable.

The University of Zambia is more than just a school; it is a national asset. Allowing it to fall into such a state is not only disappointing,it is deeply embarrassing on both a national and international level. We cannot claim to prioritize education while neglecting the very institutions that provide it.

This is a moment for leadership to prove itself not through words, but through action. The people are watching. The students are suffering. And the nation deserves better.

Wilson Banda
Democratic Progressive Party (DPP)
Spokesperson

UNZA CRISIS NOT AN EMERGENCY BUT NATIONAL FAILURE – MWANZA

…says overcrowded hostels and deteriorating infrastructure had persisted for years under successive administrations

A former student leader at the University of Zambia (UNZA) has described the institution’s current challenges as a “national failure” rather than an emergency, blaming years of neglect by both government and university management.

Mr. Antonio Mourinho Mwanza, former UNZASU president, said in a statement that the situation at UNZA was being wrongly framed.

“Let us be candid–this is not an emergency,” he said. “It is the predictable outcome of years of neglect and lack of seriousness from both the government and UNZA management.”

He noted that problems such as broken sanitation systems, overcrowded hostels and deteriorating infrastructure had persisted for years under successive administrations, including the MMD, the PF and the UPND.

According to Mwanza, “the real question…is not what has happened today–but why decisive action was not taken yesterday.”

He argued that while responsibility was shared, the government bore the greater burden.

Mwanza said public universities depended on consistent funding and oversight, adding that successive governments had failed to adequately support institutions, leading to “high indebtedness and deteriorating standards of education.”

At the same time, he said UNZA management must be held accountable for failing to maintain infrastructure.

“Maintenance is not an occasional exercise–it is a continuous obligation,” he said, warning that the current state of facilities reflected “serious institutional weaknesses.”

Mwanza criticized what he described as reactive responses to the crisis, stating that “emergency meetings, press statements, and directives may signal urgency–but they remain reactive and not proactive.”

He called for structural reforms, including the creation of a ring-fenced infrastructure fund, independent financial audits, and aligning student enrolment with available infrastructure.

He also urged government to complete stalled hostel projects and settle outstanding statutory obligations to institutions such as the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) and the National Pension Scheme Authority (NAPSA).

“Students deserve dignity,” Mwanza said, adding that education must be treated as a national priority.

He warned that failure to address systemic issues would mean the country would “continue to manage crises–rather than prevent them.”

FUEL PRICE HIKE A SERIOUS BUT MANAGEABLE CHALLENGE – MWANZA

LUSAKA – Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) president Antonio Mourinho Mwanza has described today’s increase in fuel prices, particularly diesel, as a “serious development” with far-reaching implications on the cost of living.

In a statement issued to the public, Mwanza said diesel remained a critical driver of key sectors such as transport, food supply, mining and power generation, warning that its rise would inevitably translate into higher living costs.

“The increase in fuel prices–especially diesel–is a serious development,” he said.

“Diesel underpins transport, food supply, mining, and power. Its rise inevitably pushes up the cost of living.”

Commenting on government’s decision to declare the situation a national disaster, Mwanza acknowledged that the move was understandable given the prevailing economic pressures.

However, he cautioned that such a declaration must be backed by tangible outcomes.

“The decision by government is understandable given the pressure on the economy. It allows for urgency and coordinated action,” he said.

“However, it must also be said: a declaration is only justified if it leads to clear, practical results.”

Mwanza attributed the recurring fuel challenges to Zambia’s structural vulnerabilities, noting that the country remained heavily dependent on imported fuel and exposed to global price fluctuations.

“Zambia remains dependent on imported fuel, exposed to global price shocks, and constrained by a weak buffer,” he said.

“This is why every global disruption is felt quickly at home.”

He outlined several immediate priorities, emphasizing the need to stabilise the local currency and secure fuel supply chains.

Mwanza stressed that the Bank of Zambia had a crucial role to play in maintaining currency stability.

“The Bank of Zambia has a critical role here. Currency stability directly affects fuel prices,” he said.

He further called for efficient utilisation of the TAZAMA Pipeline and diversification of supply routes to prevent disruptions, alongside targeted support for key sectors such as transport and agriculture to cushion economic pressure.

On long-term solutions, Mwanza urged government to take a definitive stance on the future of the Indeni Refinery, stating that Zambia required a sustainable refining strategy.

“Whether through rehabilitation or replacement, Zambia needs a long-term refining strategy,” he said.

He also advocated for investment in strategic fuel reserves, describing it as a necessary safeguard against global shocks.

“Building meaningful reserves–30 to 90 days–is not optional; it is a national safeguard against global shocks,” Mwanza said.

Additionally, he called for smarter procurement practices, including long-term and bulk purchasing during favourable price periods to mitigate future volatility.

Meanwhile, Mwanza maintained that while the situation was serious, it remained manageable if handled with discipline and consistency.

“The declaration of a national disaster signals urgency–but credibility will come from action, not words,” he said.

“What is required now is discipline in policy, clarity in direction, and consistency in implementation.”

He added that with a balanced approach combining immediate interventions and long-term reforms, Zambia could stabilise the situation and build resilience.

“The focus must remain steady: protect citizens today, and secure the future tomorrow,” Mwanza said.

WE ARE READY TO WORK WITH UPND

...IF we agree on the economic agenda, says DPP leader Antonio Mwanza

Lusaka... Thursday March 26, 2026

Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) President Antonio Mourinho Mwanza says his party is open to working with the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) and other political stakeholders, provided there is agreement on key economic priorities.

Speaking during an appearance on Hot FM’s Hot Red Breakfast Show in Lusaka on Thursday morning, Mr. Mwanza said the DPP is willing to form alliances based on shared economic goals.

"We have made it very clear, and I want to use this platform to make it even clearer: we are ready to work with everyone, including the UPND, if we agree on the economic agenda," he said.

He added that the party's willingness to collaborate extends to any political organisation prepared to adopt its proposed economic policies.

"If the UPND is ready to implement some of the key economic policies we are proposing as DPP, we are ready to work with them. If any other political party is willing to embrace these key economic priorities, then we are open to working together," Mr. Mwanza stated.

Mr. Mwanza emphasized that his involvement in politics is driven by public service rather than personal ambition.

"I am not in politics to get a job; I am here to serve the people of Zambia," he said.

He also stressed that national unity should focus on benefiting citizens broadly, rather than serving the interests of a few political actors.

Meanwhile, Mr. Mwanza underscored the importance of economic empowerment for Zambians, arguing that sustainable national development must be driven by local participation.

He said while foreign investment has played a role in the country's economy, it has not sufficiently translated into development, and called for greater local ownership.

"We need Zambians to take up the mantle and drive the development of this country," he said.

MWANZA CALLS FOR CALM

....as ECZ finalises constituency delimitation

Lusaka.... Thursday March 26, 2026

Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) President Antonio Mourinho Mwanza has called on stakeholders to exercise patience as the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) finalizes and prepares to release the delimitation report.

Mr. Mwanza said the public should wait for the commission’s final document, which is expected to be released on April 15, 2026.

Speaking during an appearance on Hot FM’s Hot Red Breakfast Show in Lusaka on Thursday morning, Mr. Mwanza emphasized the need for the delimitation process to strictly adhere to constitutional provisions.

He noted that the creation of new constituencies must be guided by key factors such as population size, geographical considerations, and cohesion, in line with the Constitution.

"We as DPP are proposing that Central Province should have eight new constituencies, Luapula six, Western five, North-Western five, and Muchinga three. This proposal is based on population, geographic location, and cohesion, and has been officially submitted to the ECZ," he said.

Mr. Mwanza further urged the commission to strictly follow Articles 58 and 59, along with other relevant constitutional provisions, in carrying out the delimitation exercise.

He acknowledged that delimitation processes often attract mixed reactions, with some stakeholders expressing concerns about potential political bias.

"In Zambia, during the 2019/2020 delimitation attempts by the Patriotic Front (PF), the United Party for National Development (UPND) opposed the process, accusing the PF of attempting to create constituencies in areas where they had strong support," he said.

Mr. Mwanza added that similar concerns are now being raised, with some alleging that the UPND may seek to create more constituencies in its traditional strongholds, including Southern, North-Western, and Western provinces.

However, he maintained that stakeholders should refrain from speculation and allow the ECZ to complete its work.

"Some people are saying the UPND wants to create more seats in their strongholds, but we say let us wait for the ECZ’s delimitation report," he said.

He reiterated that the commission must be given the space to independently carry out its mandate and produce a credible final report.