Editorial Comment: Tribalism has no place in Zambia
AN AUDIO recording circulating on social media, allegedly featuring Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) chief executive officer Eng Amon Mweemba has sparked widespread outrage. In the audio, Mweemba is heard claiming that only Tongas will occupy senior positions at the agency, which is under the Ministry of Transport and Communication. If authentic, these remarks are not only reckless and divisive, but also an affront to the values upon which our nation was founded.
Zambia is home to more than 73 tribes, all of whom have coexisted peacefully for over half a century under the cherished motto: ‘One Zambia, One Nation’. This unity was not accidental. It was a deliberate project of our founding fathers led by the late President Dr Kenneth Kaunda, who worked tirelessly to ensure that ethnic and tribal differences did not tear the fabric of our young nation apart. For a public official of Mweemba’s standing to utter such sentiments is deeply unfortunate and must be condemned in the strongest possible terms.
The issue of tribalism is not new in our national discourse. For years, it has lingered on the margins of politics and public life, often whispered in private circles but rarely confronted openly. The United Party for National Development (UPND), now in government, has positioned itself as a victim of tribal accusations. Its leaders and members have frequently dismissed any criticism on tribalism as malicious or politically motivated. Yet the audio in question challenges that defensive posture. It compels us, as a nation, to confront tribalism honestly rather than dismiss every concern as mere politicking.
Tribalism is not a trivial matter. Around the world, it has been a seed of destruction, fueling ethnic cleansing, civil wars and national disintegration. Zambia has been fortunate to avoid such calamities, largely because we have consciously nurtured national unity. But this peace cannot be taken for granted. The viral comments, and the heated reactions they have provoked on Facebook and other platforms, show just how deeply divided citizens remain along tribal lines. Ignoring this reality will not heal our divisions; it will only deepen them.
Employment and appointments in public institutions must never be based on one’s region, tribe or surname. They must be anchored on merit, competence and integrity. Anything less undermines public confidence in institutions, breeds resentment and alienates sections of society. When an official in a position of authority suggests, even in private, that opportunities will be reserved for one ethnic group, he disqualifies himself from leading an institution meant to serve all Zambians.
For this reason, Eng Mweemba is not fit to continue as RTSA CEO. His comments, if verified, warrant nothing short of dismissal. If he is a man of integrity, he must resign on his own.
Leaders must not only be impartial; they must also be seen to be impartial. Retaining him in office would send a dangerous message that tribalism is tolerated in public service, especially under the current regime.
More broadly, Zambia needs to return to the ideals of unity and patriotism that defined the early years of independence. We must cultivate a culture where being Zambian comes before being Bemba, Tonga, Ngoni, Lozi or any of the other proud tribes that enrich our diversity. Intermarriages, cultural exchange and decades of coexistence are proof that we can thrive together. But tribal favoritism, whether in words or deeds, risks eroding these hard-won bonds.
Those perpetrating this rampant tribalism in the current administration may think that they are doing their tribesmen and women a favour without realising that they are actually putting them in the line of fire. The next government is likely to carry out serious human resource or staff audits to determine the extent of tribalism in the public service. They should not cry wolf when they are weeded out and thrown into the streets. Some may even face prosecution.
This is a call to all citizens: let us refuse to be divided by tribal rhetoric and appointments. Let us hold our leaders accountable when they stray into dangerous territory. And let us recommit to the national identity that has sustained us through challenges before.
Zambia belongs to all of us equally. Tribalism has no place in our public life. Let us condemn it without fear.
