Tell #OnlyTheTruth, Miti Counsels Kambwili

Chishimba Kambwili has been in the spotlight following his recent apology to President Lungu, prompting speculation that the former PF minister intends to do a 360 and return to the ruling party ahead of the 2021 elections. 

Kambwili has spent recent years as a vocal critic of the President and many of his close associates, questioning their recent rise in wealth, connections and the source and use of government funds for initiatives such as the Presidential Empowerment Fund.  

In return prominent PF members have slung mud at their former colleague, with Minister of Home Affairs Stephen Kampyongo having formerly labelled Kambwili the most corrupt person. Kambwili has also faced arrest and was previously charged with criminal defamation of the Head of State. 

Commenting on Kambwili’s recent apology Alliance for Community Action (ACA) Executive Director Laura Miti has cautioned people to be careful and truthful when making social media posts. 

“Do not find yourself apologising like Chishimba Kambwili - generally made to grovel because of what you say,” Miti writes.  

“Post #OnlyTheTruth like that the FIC reported that Zambia lost more than K14 billion to corruption between 2016 and 2018. That 6.3 billion of that was in lost 2016, a year in which the whole health budget was K5.8 Billion. Yes, in 2016 more money went to private pockets via corruption than to the health of all Zambians. Tell only the truth on social media. Why lie?” Miti counsels, using the case to highlight the importance of backing your claims up. 

Kambwili has made various allegations aimed at high-ranking PF officials in recent years, warning then that he would disclose further details if pushed. 

Kambwili’s apology to President Lungu comes following his departure from the opposition UPND Alliance, which has seen the National Democratic Congress split in two.