PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has observed that the majority of Zambians are fond of glorifying ‘thieves,’ such that whenever government tries to investigate them, many people rise up to defend them.
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Speaking when he ushered in new public officials at State House this morning, President Hichilema stated that it was wrong for public servants to steal from the people of Zambia and his administration does not in any way protect ‘thieves.’
The President urged the newly sworn in officials to put the interest of the public first, and theirs last.
He added that every public official must carry with them personal integrity and diligence in the course of their duties.
He explained that any individual that steals from the people of Zambia, especially in the health sector is not a business person but a thief.
“That sector is notorious for that, but we are determined to bring an end to that. Somebody takes away drugs supposed to be applied for the sick, citizens dies. You pocket that money, tomorrow you call yourself a businesswoman, no you are just a thief, that’s who you are,” said President Hichilema.
He said the seven officials that were sworn in today, owe the country diligence and integrity all the time.
“In this country, we have been glorifying thieves. You touch the thieves, no, no, ethnic issues, religious victimisation, aikona, aikona. What is for the public is for the public, what is private is private. There is a duty to your acceptance. Diligence, separating public funds from private funds. We must carry some integrity, personal level integrity,” explained the Head of State.
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, July 3, 2025
