Sata claims innocence in parley by-elections scandal

President Sata

PRESIDENT Michael Sata has claimed innocence in the parliamentary by-elections scandal where his Government is allegedly luring opposition Members of Parliament to resign and join his party.
Mr Sata dismissed assertions that the PF is inducing parliamentary by-elections following recent defections from opposition parties to the ruling party.
President Sata described the claims by his critics as idle and trivial speculation and that the Republican Constitution is clear on the circumstances and procedures under which parliamentary or local government elections are permissible.
The President said those criticising the concept of by-elections should be “clear-headed” and honest when expressing their views on such matters.
“Our Constitution is clear on the circumstances and procedures under which parliamentary or local government by-elections are permissible.
And all registered political parties are at liberty to exercise their Constitutional right to participate in any subsequent contest that might arise,” President Sata said.
Mr Sata said this in a statement issued by State House Special Assistant for Press and Public Relations, George Chellah in Lusaka yesterday.
 “Therefore, as an administration devoted to the rule of law, we find this deliberate attempt to debate democracy and its price, mischievous and time-wasting. As far as we are concerned we have not violated any law and we see no grounds for such blatant pretence from the critics of this legally recognized act,” Mr Sata said.
He wondered what critics of by-elections wanted the government to do in situations where an elected representative died, crossed-over, resigned or lost an election petition in the Court.
“These are straightforward matters and we should not play to the gallery on such essential affairs of governance. As leaders we should embrace sincerity and constantly endeavour to provide direction in the
search for viable remedies to the numerous challenges facing our people,” he said.
He said his government remained committed to the concept of an all inclusive governance approach.
“The PF government remains steadfast to the concept of inclusivity and open its doors to all stakeholders as we seek to address the social and economic challenges to create a better Zambia for all in line with
our party manifesto,” he added.
He reaffirmed his administration’s zeal to deepening democracy, equality and respect for the will of the Zambian people.
President Sata thanked all political stakeholders who had chosen the interests of the Zambian people ahead of meaningless partisanship's.