Edgar Lungu should take leave from Ministerial positions – FODEP

With the Launch of PF campaigns on the Copperbelt today by Hon. Edgar Lungu, MP and Minister of Defence and Justice ahead of the 20th January, 2015 Presidential Elections, there is an urgent need for him to take leave from his ministerial positions and consequently resign as Chawama MP once declared validly nominated by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ).

Foundation for Democratic Process (FODEP)’s call on Hon. Lungu, MP to take leave as Minister of Defence and Justice is to assist him concentrate on the campaigns and also not to be tempted to abuse his authority, power and resources under him by virtue of serving as minister.
This is because Hon. Lungu, MP, under the current electoral laws and regulations, is not entitled to use any government or parastatal facilities and resources to campaign for his presidential bid under his party’s ticket.

FODEP is of the view that to level the playing field, all presidential candidates should battle it out without using public resources. In this regard, we call on all ministers, District Commissioners, Permanent Secretaries to avoid abusing government resources and facilities like observed during the PF presidential nominations which were done at Cabinet Office and PF Council Meeting held at Koihma Baracks in Kabwe.

The acting President, Dr. Guy Scott, should ensure government and parastatal resources and facilities are well safeguarded and not abused by ministers and other government officials during this period with a view to favour one political player.

To this end FODEP appeals for peaceful and issued based electoral campaigns ahead of the presidential campaigns and this will require political leadership from all political parties.