LUSAKA - President Hakainde Hichilema says opposition political parties and their supporters remain an important part of Zambia's democracy, assuring them that his administration will respect their choices and work with all citizens.
President Hichilema said this yesterday when he was sworn in for a second five-year term at the National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka alongside Vice-President Mutale Nalumango.
Chief Justice Mumba Malila administered the oaths of office as thousands of ruling UPND supporters gathered for the inauguration.
President Hichilema said his Government would serve all Zambians regardless of political affiliation, religion, ethnicity, gender or social status.
"To our political competitors and their supporters, we say you remain an important part of our democracy and we respect your choices. Where we disagree, we do so as political competitors, not as enemies. Elections are a contest of ideas; they must never become permanent divisions amongst our people," he said.
He urged citizens to embrace hard and smart work while pledging to ensure that every Zambian's voice was heard.
"So I make this pledge to you personally; I will continue to be a servant President for all the people of Zambia," President Hichilema said.
The President also extended an invitation to his political opponents to participate in national development, saying constructive criticism and good ideas would be welcomed.
"The election is now behind us and the country before us belongs to us all. The campaign is over but the work of building Zambia continues," he said.
President Hichilema called for peace and national unity, warning that political competition should never threaten Zambia's stability.