Fury Over PF Covid-19 ‘Sensitisation’ Rally

Zambians online are criticising the Patriotic Front (PF) for hosting a so-called ‘Covid-19 sensitisation rally’ in Ndola this Saturday, describing the event as “extravagant” and “irresponsible”. 

The rally will feature Lusaka Minister Bowman Lusambo as its main speaker, along with South African musicians Master KG - famous for his hit Jerusalema - and Mafikizolo. 

Zambian artists Chanda Na Kay and Yo Maps are also expected to perform. 

However, many Zambians have criticised the PF for spending money on such an event when Zambia is facing mounting debt and a public health crisis in the form of Covid-19.

Civil society activist Laura Miti tweeted to Master KG and Mafikizoko comparing the PF to South Africa’s National Party during Apartheid.

“Dear SA your Master KG & Mafikizoko are coming to perform at the campaign rally of the most dictatorial & corrupt gov Zambia has ever seen. Think of it like a Zambian band performing for the National Party during apartheid. We can't even afford meds in hospitals but can pay KG,” she wrote. 

Events organiser Bradley Chingobe tweeted a similar message:

“Extravagance or irresponsibility is when you eat from fancy restaurants when your children have no food at home. This is simply reckless by the PF. @MafikizoloSA don't come. By coming you will be helping the PF impoverish Zambia even much more. @Julius_S_Malema".

The uproar comes after the government announced yesterday that it will likely default on its debts to eurobond holders unless creditors agree to a moratorium on interest payments.

Meanwhile cases of Covid-19 continue to rise, particularly at large group events. The total number of cases in Zambia currently stands at 15,587, with 345 deaths.