16/12/2023
NOT FOR KIDS READING:
FORMER PRESIDENTS BENEFITS:
Preserving Democracy - The Case of Edgar Lungu
By: WISEMAN HENRY ZULU
In well set and growing democratic societies like Zambia, the transition from presidency to post-presidential life involves upholding the rule of law and standards of all judicial, cabinet, constitutional and other long standing, carefully crafted institutional procedures to ensure the non-political engagement of former presidents.
It is worth noting that whatever is obtaining currently in the case of former president Edgar Lungu, is familiar to most Zambia’s and all relevant government institutions.
In this article, I explore some of government's standard procedures for withdrawing benefits from former presidents involved in active politics, using the recent case of Zambia's former president, Edgar Lungu as a focal point.
Specifically, I delves into the implications of Lungu's actions on the administration of President Hakainde Hichilema and the broader challenges to the nation associated with such deviations from established norms.
GOVERNMENT INSTITUTIONAL STANDARD PROCEDURES:
Withdrawal of benefits for a former president engaging in active politics is a standard cabinet office and constitutional procedure.
It is set to among many aspects of governance and democracy as a safeguard against the potential of president’s misuse of their influence and resources to destabilize democracy.
It typically entail a thorough review of the former president's actions to determine the extent of their involvement in political affairs.
The process is essential for upholding the principles of a non-partisan post-presidential life and preventing the undue influence of former leaders on the political landscape, especially for possibilities of one’s desire to pushing a selfish agenda over national stability.
THE CASE OF EDGAR LUNGU:
Edgar Lungu, as former president of Zambia, has recently come under scrutiny for his involvement in active politics, notably in what seems to be his calculated agenda of trying to undermine the administration of President Hakainde Hichilema.
Lungu's recent public denouncement of his former office as Head of State, followed by a return to active politics, and his subsequent change of mind, raises concerns about the adherence to established norms and has potential impact on democratic processes.
LUNGU'S FLIP-FLOP ON BENEFITS:
Of particular concern is Lungu's inconsistent stance on the benefits he used to receive.
His application having been thrown out by the court, is a good sign of the New Dawn's Government of President Hakainde Hichilema's adherence to cabinet, judicial and constitutional standards and procedures.
On the other hand, he himself has proven to the nation that he can not be trusted to in any way uphold the constitution which he once governed by.
Initially, he publicly rejected what he referred to as "crumbs of benefits," claiming he would not be swayed by such offerings.
That statement in itself shows he has a lofty character or backhand influence and or lack of understanding the merits of the state’s obligations on office of former presidents.
In addition to the foregoing, his words came out suggesting as if one in a personal business undertaking with a negotiating attitude of Take-It-Or-Leave-It, I am better of without the state.
However, his recent plea to be reinstated on the benefits payroll indicates a change of heart. His flip-flop character, sudden change of mind, raises questions about the former president's foresight and the potential implications of his decisions on Zambia's democratic processes.
UNDERMINING PRESIDENT HICHILEMA'S LEADERSHIP:
Lungu's actions not only violate established procedures and the constitution, but also undermine the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema.
By denouncing his former office and engaging in active politics, yet still claiming for his benefits, Lungu is challenging the flow of democracy and tries the collective wisdom of the entire Zambian citizenry.
POLITICAL OPINION
It seems Lungu changed his mind after realizing his desires could not work of trying to create a destabilizing effect on the current administration and governance in Zambia.
He hoped he could work round to erode public trust in the democratic process and complicate President Hichilema's efforts to govern effectively.
CHALLENGES AND LACK OF FORESIGHT:
The challenges arising from Lungu's actions underscore the importance of foresight by former head of state. One would be lopsided to think that his decisions were meant to have far-reaching consequences for the nation's political stability.
Lungu's inconsistent approach to benefits showcases the potential dangers of prioritizing short-term gains over long-term democratic principles for the development of the country.
CITIZEN AWARENESS AND LEADERSHIP CHARACTER:
As citizens of Zambia evaluate political leaders, the case of Edgar Lungu provides valuable insights into the character points to consider.
The public should be wary of leaders who display inconsistency, disregard for established norms, and a lack of foresight.
Supporting leaders committed to upholding democratic principles and respecting institutional standards is essential for the nation's long-term stability and progress.
CONCLUSION:
The case of Edgar Lungu serves as a critical lesson in the importance of adhering to government institutional standard procedures for former presidents.
The implications of his actions underscore the need for citizens to carefully evaluate his character and political commitment to the nation's democratic stability.
15/12/2023
WISEMAN HENRY ZULU
Politician/Media Expert
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