HAPPY BIRTHDAY MOTHER ZAMBIA

THIS Monday, October 24, Zambia celebrated 58 years of independence from the British colonial rule. As we celebrate 58 of self-rule, we must have an honest assessment of the progress and set backs of the state and nation building project we call: One Zambia One Nation.

There are seven demons that stubbornly keep blocking our efforts of building a truly united and prosperous nation. Seven is figurative for a complete possession of the country by the evil spirits.

There is no need to list and discuss all of the seven demons here. There is however one that requires our resolve because it sits at the core of the project of national building.

This demon is one-party state mentality. We lived under it starting in the 70’s until we buried it in 1991. After a brief spell, it resurrected in different forms and colours.

Its manifestation is always seeking to build a state and nation of uniformity rather than diversity.

So, when cadres go on rampage in our communities particularly during elections, they are just enforcing uniformity rather than diversity as God ordained his majestic creation.

Strength lies within our differences and not our sameness. We need to continue advocating for peaceful co-existence though the best ideal is pro-existence.

Co-existence is about socio-political and religious tolerance while pro-existence is higher and requires a spirituality of promoting the right of existence of all people including those different from you.

Fifty-eight years of independence is a long time to have the nation accept that caderism is best form of investment of the most energetic stage in the life cycle of the youth. We need to use all the resources at our disposal to re-direct this energy and dynamism of the youth away from this demon where youths are paid to enforce a one-party state by custom. Happy birthday Mother Zambia.