REMARKS AND CONDUCT ATTRIBUTED TO FORMER BOTSWANA PRESIDENT, MR IAN KHAMA, RAISE SERIOUS QUESTIONS ABOUT POSSIBLE LINKS TO THE FINANCING AND SPONSORSHIP OF MILITIA ACTIVITIES IN ZAMBIA.
It is both appalling and deeply saddening to hear remarks attributed to former President of Botswana, Mr Ian Khama, directed at our Head of State, President Hakainde Hichilema, and the Republic of Zambia.
To say the least, such remarks are unfortunate, reckless and unbecoming of a former Head of State who should, by virtue of his experience, be expected to uphold the values of statesmanship, diplomacy, peace and respect for democratic institutions.
Unlike the characterisation being advanced against our President, Mr Hichilema has, over the years, consistently demonstrated his commitment to patriotism, democracy and constitutionalism.
Despite losing elections on five previous occasions, he respected the electoral outcomes and the decisions of institutions mandated to oversee democratic processes.
At no point did he resort to unconstitutional or unorthodox means of ascending to power. His conduct is a clear demonstration of his respect for the will of the people and the rule of law.
In 2021, the people of Zambia overwhelmingly elected President Hakainde Hichilema through the ballot. His mandate was subsequently renewed in the 2026 General Elections, further affirming the confidence and trust that Zambians have placed in his leadership.
It is, therefore, deeply regrettable that Mr Khama would make statements that are not only careless but also unbecoming of a statesman of his standing. Former Heads of State have a responsibility to promote peace, strengthen democratic values and foster cordial relations among nations, rather than make pronouncements that risk undermining confidence in legitimate democratic institutions.
For the avoidance of doubt, President Hakainde Hichilema was duly declared the winner of the 2026 General Elections by the constitutionally mandated electoral authorities. He did not impose himself on the people of Zambia, nor did he assume power outside the established constitutional framework. His legitimacy is derived from the ballot and the democratic will of the Zambian people.
Contrary to the sentiments attributed to Mr Khama, any reasonable and objective observer can attest that, since assuming office, President Hichilema has consistently championed peace, embraced divergent opinions, promoted national dialogue and upheld the rule of law. His leadership has continued to demonstrate that democracy is not merely about winning elections but also about respecting institutions, protecting fundamental freedoms and accommodating differing views.
We therefore urge Mr Ian Khama to desist from making pronouncements that are inconsistent with the realities on the ground and that risk misrepresenting the situation in Zambia. He must be reminded that Zambia is a sovereign nation, with established constitutional and democratic institutions capable of addressing and managing its own affairs without unwarranted external interference.
Let it be clearly understood that Zambians continue to enjoy their democratic rights and freedoms while respecting the rule of law. There is no constitutional confusion or governance vacuum in Zambia. Our country remains peaceful, stable and firmly committed to democratic governance.
Furthermore, Zambia’s recognition as a beacon of peace and its overwhelming election, with 177 votes, to the United Nations Human Rights Council are important indicators of the country’s standing within the international community. These achievements reflect the confidence placed in Zambia and its commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights, peace and democratic values.
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) electoral observation reports also recorded approximately 99 per cent peaceful conditions in the areas monitored during the electoral process. This is a testament to the maturity of our democracy and the collective commitment of Zambians to maintaining peace and stability.
Zambia has moved beyond the electoral contest. Our country is back on its feet, and the focus of the people is now firmly on national development, economic transformation and the Grow Zambia Agenda. Presidential elections are now in the past; the present and future must be about growing Zambia.
In view of the foregoing, I strongly urge Mr Ian Khama to retract his remarks and render an unreserved apology to President Hakainde Hichilema and the people of Zambia.
Failure to do so will inevitably raise serious questions about the motives behind his statements. It may leave the public wondering whether his utterances are driven by resentment towards President Hichilema’s overwhelming electoral victory in 2026, in which he secured more than three million votes, or whether there are other underlying interests aimed at undermining a legitimately elected government.
More concerning are the implications of such remarks when viewed against allegations and suspicions of external involvement in activities intended to destabilise Zambia, including alleged attempts to support opposition groups and facilitate the formation of militias.
We sincerely hope that Mr Khama’s statements have no connection whatsoever to such allegations. However, his continued pronouncements risk creating perceptions that may be damaging to his reputation as a former Head of State and regional statesman.
It is unfortunate that, instead of celebrating Zambia’s continued peace, stability and development, Mr Khama appears to be advancing sentiments that could undermine these very achievements. One cannot help but wonder whether his remarks are influenced by resentment or discomfort with the progress Zambia is making under President Hakainde Hichilema’s leadership.
We sincerely hope that these concerns are misplaced and that Mr Khama will choose the path of truth, wisdom and responsible statesmanship.
We further urge him to be guided by facts, promote peace and safeguard the cordial diplomatic relations that have historically existed between Zambia and Botswana. As a former Head of State, he should fully appreciate the responsibility that comes with his position and the potential consequences of his public pronouncements.
Zambia is a sovereign, peaceful and democratic nation. Our democracy is anchored in the will of the people, our institutions and the rule of law. No individual, regardless of their former position, should make statements that threaten to undermine these values.
We await Mr Khama’s retraction and apology. Should he fail to do so, we reserve the right to consider further appropriate steps in defence of our President, our sovereignty and the democratic integrity of our nation.
Judith Kabemba Nkonge
Member of Parliament
In what capacity can you take further appropriate steps in defence of your President, and what would those appropriate steps be? and why is the accused quiet?