The economy has backslid since the coming of PF into government. The cost of living has risen to unsustainable levels. Since coming into government, the PF has taken steps that have accelerated people’s slide into poverty. This government removed subsidies which cushioned the poor and as a result essential commodities like mealie-meal have reached record high from the MMD’s K37 to the current K100 per 25kg bag.
Transport costs have risen following the increase in fuel prices. In contradiction, mini bus and taxi drivers have been directed not to increase fares although fuel has gone up. Furthermore, ZESCO has increased their tariffs by over 25%, an increase considered to be economically immoral. Over borrowing by government has moved our national debt stock to over $4.5 billion within three years of getting into government. This will continue to exert unnecessary pressure on our limited resource envelope through abnormal interest rates.
This scenario has made everyday life very difficult for families in all social brackets. It is for this reason that the MMD considers the wage freeze as an immoral option. The cost of living continues to rise, the Kwacha has been stripped of its power but salaries have remained stagnant. It is for this reason that public workers should be allowed to negotiate through their unions.
While the MPs are not excluded from the harsh economic realities, it becomes morally complicated for them to lead the pack in demanding for more money. As leaders, we should work towards addressing the bigger picture which in the end gives relief to the majority of Zambians.
We are aware that the MPs find themselves in a very compromising position since they have no union which negotiates on their behalf and they have to negotiate for their own conditions. It is for this reason that MMD supports the establishment of a parliamentary service commission to handle the interests of members of parliament.
The timing to demand for more pay is inappropriate.
Dr Nevers Sekwila Mumba
MMD President