LUSAKA - Governance expert Gilbert Chisenga says President Hakainde Hichilema's assertion that nine out of Zambia's 10 provinces have already decided to vote for him in the upcoming general election is inappropriate for a sitting Head of State.
Speaking in an interview, Mr. Chisenga said it is impossible to determine how citizens will vote before polling day, stressing that the outcome of the August 13 General Election can only be known after ballots have been cast and counted.
He warned that it would be politically risky for the President to convince himself and the public that victory is already assured, saying such confidence could prove costly if the electorate ultimately decides otherwise.
Meanwhile, Green Party president Peter Sinkamba also questioned the President's remarks.
Mr. Sinkamba asked why President Hichilema continues campaigning in provinces where he claims support has already been secured.
He argued that if nine of the country's 10 provinces had indeed already decided to support the President, there would be little reason to repeatedly campaign in those same areas.
The comments come after President Hichilema recently expressed confidence that he would secure victory in nine provinces, a statement that has since drawn mixed reactions from political stakeholders.