Breaking the silence: confronting tribalism and safeguarding democracy in Zambia
By Dr Lawrence Mwelwa
Dr Fred M’membe’s recent article on Dr Sishuwa Sishuwa’s critiques of Zambia’s political landscape addresses significant concerns regarding freedom of speech, tribalism, and the misuse of state power. These critiques highlight issues that demand sober reflection and action to safeguard Zambia’s democracy and unity. Suppressing these voices only exacerbates the problems, threatening the foundations of the nation.
Criticism is not an act of enmity; it is a cornerstone of democracy. Dr Sishuwa’s efforts to highlight regionalism and tribalism reflect a commitment to fairness, not hatred. As Theodore Roosevelt once said, “To announce that there must be no criticism of the president, or that we are to stand by the president, right or wrong, is not only unpatriotic and servile, but is morally treasonable.”
The growing trend of weaponising legal systems—lawfare—against critics stifles the democratic process and fosters resentment among those who feel unheard. Why is it that critiques of regional imbalances often lead to accusations of hate speech or incitement? Should such issues not be addressed with transparency rather than being swept under the rug? These are questions government must confront if it is to uphold democratic principles and foster unity.
Dr Sishuwa’s observations about the overrepresentation of certain regions in government and law enforcement call for an honest examination of the facts. Why do patterns of arrests and convictions disproportionately affect certain regions? What does this suggest about the impartiality of law enforcement and judicial systems? These questions are not mere accusations but are vital to understanding whether the principles of fairness and justice are being upheld.
Dr M’membe challenges us to reflect on whether individuals from the Zambezi region are somehow beyond reproach. Is it realistic to believe that no wrongdoing occurs in one region while others face the brunt of punitive measures? This is not an indictment of any particular group but a call to ensure that no region or tribe is perceived as above scrutiny. Biases in governance—whether perceived or real—undermine public trust in institutions and deepen societal fractures.
History provides dire warnings about the dangers of ignoring tribalism. In Rwanda, years of ethnic favouritism and exclusion culminated in one of the worst genocides of the 20th century. Similarly, Nigeria’s Biafran war stemmed from unresolved ethnic tensions and perceptions of exclusion. Zambia must learn from these examples. Nelson Mandela once said, “Resentment is like drinking poison and then hoping it will kill your enemies.” Ignoring the issue of tribalism does not heal divisions; it exacerbates them. How can the government ensure that appointments to key positions reflect the diversity of Zambia’s population? What mechanisms are in place to address perceptions of bias in the judiciary and law enforcement? These questions demand answers if Zambia is to move toward a more equitable and united future. Critics like Dr Sishuwa should not be treated as enemies. George Orwell famously stated, “Freedom is the right to tell people what they do not want to hear.” Silencing critics eliminates opportunities for dialogue and solutions. Instead, their perspectives should be valued as contributions to national development.
Zambia’s strength lies in its diversity, and unity cannot be achieved by suppressing discussions about tribalism. Addressing these concerns transparently and equitably is the only way to ensure that all citizens feel represented and valued. Dr M’membe’s article calls for a national commitment to open dialogue, institutional reform, and a renewed dedication to the principles of justice and fairness.
Are the government’s actions fostering unity or deepening divisions? Are institutions of governance and justice operating impartially, or do they reflect systemic biases? Can Zambia claim to uphold democratic ideals if critics are silenced rather than engaged? These are not just questions for the government but for every Zambian committed to building a stronger, more inclusive nation.
As Dr Martin Luther King Jr warned, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” By confronting these issues head-on, Zambia has the opportunity to strengthen its democracy and build a future where all citizens, regardless of tribe or region, can thrive.
The author is an academician, politician, musician, and revolutionary writer. Send feedback to:
lmwelwa@gmail.com