Opposition Leader Says Zambia President Banda Failed to Lead

The leader of Zambia’s opposition United Party for National Development (UNDP) says President Rupiah Banda has failed to lead the country in the time of crisis after accusing the president of being overly excited about travelling abroad.

25 March 2010

The leader of Zambia’s opposition United Party for National Development (UNDP) says President Rupiah Banda has failed to lead the country in the time of crisis after accusing the president of being overly excited about travelling abroad.

Hakainda Hichilema described the president as “Mr. Holiday” who has so far failed to provide leadership when several Zambians were killed during the recent floods.

AFP PhotoZambia President Rupiah Banda dismisses the accusations as ignorance

“The president must understand that his primary responsibility is to ensure that he can attend to the welfare of the people of Zambia. That is the reason that he was elected into office. It is therefore logical that he does begin to understand that he has priorities and his priorities are to deal with domestic issues first. Charity begins at home,” he said.

During his visit that began on Feb. 24 to March 4, President Banda reportedly held meetings with Chinese President Hu Jintao as well as Wu Bangguo, Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress and the Premier of the State Council, Wen Jiabao.