SOCIAL ANTHROPOLOGIST WARNS GROUPINGS AGAINST ENDORSEMENTS AHEAD OF AUGUST POLLS
SOCIAL Anthropologist Dr. James Musonda has expressed concern over sudden support for the ruling UPND government by some associations during an election year, labeling it “organized cadreism”.
This follows Our-Civic-Duty Association -OCIDA’s recent endorsement of the UPND ahead of the august elections, citing the party’s economic discipline, respect for institutions, and national unity.
But in an interview, Dr. Musonda has emphasised that associations like OCIDA should unite the country, not align with specific parties.
He recalls similar undertakings during the Patriotic Front regime, citing “Christians for Lungu” and had warned that such associations risk being targeted if the ruling party loses, stressing the need for neutrality.
Dr. Musonda has urged groupings to instead prioritise national interests over partisan loyalties, promoting a more inclusive and stable political environment.
PN