Hon. Sylvia Masebo, It’s You Who Is the Propagandist, Not Ambassador Emmanuel Mwamba – Thandiwe Ketis Ngoma

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An Open Letter to Hon. Sylvia Masebo

Subject: Hon. Minister, It’s You Who Is the Propagandist, Not Ambassador Emmanuel Mwamba

Dear Hon. Sylvia Masebo,

I recently watched a video in which you publicly stated that you were sorry for Ambassador Emmanuel Mwamba, accusing him of being a propagandist. You further remarked that he is young, while you are elderly with children. You also claimed that Ambassador Mwamba insulted you to gain political mileage. Most troublingly, you ominously added that both he and his family would suffer for his actions.

After reviewing your statements and Ambassador Mwamba’s posts on his Facebook page, I found none of the accusations you made. None of the statements you claimed he made were present. I am left to wonder why you chose to personally attack him, even mentioning things that were neither said nor written by him. This raises critical questions: Why did you resort to name-calling and threats? Why was it necessary to label him a propagandist?

Ambassador Mwamba: A Voice for Accountability, Not Propaganda

Ambassador Mwamba’s public commentaries—whether on governance, public health, or national issues—consistently draw from facts and public information. He does not fabricate sensationalized stories but rather highlights genuine concerns that resonate with many Zambians who seek greater accountability from their leaders.

His platform serves as a mirror to the Zambian government, reflecting not just its achievements but also its failures. In a democracy, where the free exchange of ideas is vital, voices like his play a critical role in holding leaders accountable. Instead of labeling him a propagandist, why not engage with him constructively? If you disagree with his views, as a leader, you have the opportunity to respond with facts, not personal attacks.

Furthermore, Ambassador Mwamba does not work in isolation. The issues he highlights—whether persistent shortages of medical supplies, the mismanagement of resources, or other failures in governance—are echoed by many concerned citizens across Zambia. By silencing him, you are indirectly dismissing the voices of the Zambian people who share his sentiments and desire answers.

Who Is Really a Propagandist?

To understand who is truly a propagandist, let us examine two notable cases during your tenure in government:

1. The JJ Banda Audio Saga

The JJ Banda leaked audio case is a glaring example of propaganda and manipulation. In the first audio recording, you were heard questioning Hon. JJ Banda about his alleged abduction by UPND officials. Despite the audio being in the public domain, you quickly denied any wrongdoing, presenting yourself as an innocent party and even threatening legal action against Hon. JJ Banda. You held a press briefing claiming that you visited Banda at his request and that your intentions were honorable.

However, when the second audio recording surfaced, your initial narrative unraveled. The recordings contradicted your earlier statements, exposing inconsistencies in your account.

This situation was not manufactured by Ambassador Mwamba or any other critic—it stemmed directly from your own actions. It demonstrates a clear attempt to manipulate public perception. So, who is the propagandist here?

2. The 61 Containers of Medical Supplies Scandal

Another glaring case is the scandal involving 61 containers of medical supplies found in a private residence during your tenure as Minister of Health. At a time when public hospitals were facing critical shortages of essential medicines, these supplies were hidden away, inaccessible to the people who needed them most.

I recall you assuring President Hakainde Hichilema during one of the press briefings that everything was fine. You claimed we had enough medicine according to WHO percentage standards, even though you knew deep down that this was not true. Most patients who went to public medical facilities were given prescriptions to buy medication from pharmacies or chemists.

Worse still, when the scandal of the 61 containers of medical supplies stored at a private residence for six months came to light, you were quick to claim you were unaware of the situation. How is it possible that such gross mismanagement of public resources could occur under your watch, yet you claim no knowledge?

Again, I ask, who is the propagandist here?

Abuse of Office and Intimidation

Madam Minister, your decision to twist and spin the information posted on Ambassador Mwamba’s Facebook page is not only a display of poor judgment but also an abuse of the authority vested in your office. By using your ministerial platform to attack Ambassador Emmanuel Mwamba, you have overstepped your bounds as a public servant.

Even more concerning is your use of ominous threats, suggesting that Ambassador Mwamba’s family will suffer for his actions. Such rhetoric is unacceptable in a democratic society and constitutes a form of intimidation. As a leader, your words carry weight, and threatening the family of a critic sets a dangerous precedent that undermines the principles of free speech and accountability.

Conclusion

Madam Minister, I urge you to rise above the divisive tactics you have employed and embrace the responsibilities of your office with dignity and honesty. Zambia deserves leaders who can confront criticism with facts and humility, not propaganda and threats. Our nation’s future depends on public officials who are willing to lead by example, fostering an environment of constructive dialogue and meaningful action.

Let this letter serve as a reminder that the Zambian people are watching, and they demand better from their leaders. It is time for you to step up and show the accountability and transparency that your office requires.

Sincerely,
Thandiwe Ketis Ngoma
A Concerned Citizen

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