A speech long on promise, short on truth

The speech by President Hakainde Hichilema on Friday was heavy with self praise and short on addressing real issues affecting ordinary Zambians.

It sounded more like a campaign rally, than a serious account to the nation, writes Thompson K Luzendi.

Selective political and economic storytelling the President boasted on a restored growth and a resuscitated economy, yet on the ground Zambians are contending with highest cost of living in years.

The Gross Domestic Product may look good on paper, but on the ground is a different story Zambians are struggling to put food on the table unable to secure stable jobs.

What use is 5.2 percent economic growth when people can not mealie meal.

He acknowledged power crisis but painted a glossy picture on solar energy projects coming online in 12 months.

The President claimed the government is committed to eco-friendly mining practices but avoiding confronting the elephant in the room.

Chinese mining companies poisoning rivers destroying farmland.