ONE of the major presidential decisions that shocked netizens this year was the dismissal of long-time UPND member and former Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, Gary Nkombo.
The President is widely known for rarely firing his officials, which is why Nkombo’s dismissal became one of the most talked about stories on social media.
On the evening of Friday, March 28, netizens scrolling through social media, others listening to the news, and some preparing to head to beer halls were shocked to learn that President Hakainde Hichilema had ended Gary Nkombo’s ministerial career.
To date, no one, if not the entire nation, excluding senior government officials, knows why the former minister was dismissed.
Nkombo was replaced by the current Local Government and Rural Development minister and Sinazongwe Member of Parliament Gift Sialubalo.
State House Principal Private Secretary Bradford Machila confirmed the termination in a statement, citing Article 270 of the Constitution of Zambia.
While no specific reason was given as to why the Minister was relived of his duties, President Hichilema thanked Nkombo for his service rendered to the country.
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, December 31, 2025
