Why Isn't the President's Hard Work Paying Off?

In a thoughtful commentary, Xhuzwayo Phiri challenges the notion of what "hard work" truly means, questioning whether the efforts of Zambia's leadership are genuinely effective. The comparison to running on a treadmill only to indulge in a triple-decker pizza highlights a potential misalignment between efforts and outcomes. Despite  President Hakainde Hichilema's insistence on his dedication, there are few tangible results to show for it, a sentiment many Zambians resonate with as they toil with minimal rewards.

Phiri suggests that it might be time to reevaluate our strategies. For instance, while exporting electricity to earn foreign exchange, the country has inadvertently compromised its own businesses and broader economy. This mirrors the earlier decision to export strategic maize reserves, which has now left Zambia grappling with widespread hunger. The analogy extends to a call for substituting the proverbial post-exercise pizza with healthier choices, implying a need for more sustainable and beneficial practices.

The critique extends to the leadership's detachment from the consequences faced by ordinary citizens. While leaders can afford luxuries like expensive food and backup power systems, the average Zambian's livelihood—be it a salon, bakery, or factory—is jeopardized by inconsistent energy supply, threatening production and income. The disconnect is stark, as leaders continue to govern through propaganda and unmet promises, leaving businesses at risk of closure.

Phiri argues that the love and loyalty citizens have for their leaders often blind them to holding those leaders accountable or demanding practical solutions. The commentary calls for a shift towards rational, objective, and goal-oriented governance and citizenry, where leadership is measured by actual delivery and accomplishment rather than sentiment.

Referencing past statements by leaders who dismissed weather as a significant factor in energy production, Phiri questions the current state of leadership quality. The leaders, who once claimed to have ended load shedding permanently, now face a different reality, suggesting a decline in governance standards. The frustration is palpable as Phiri points out the repeated failures in essential sectors like fuel, mealie meal, fertilizer, forex, and electricity.

The unreliability of ZESCO's load-shedding schedule is highlighted as a symptom of the broader issue. Phiri argues that if energy is scarce, the company should be transparent and implement a consistent, longer load-shedding schedule rather than deceive citizens with false promises. This calls for granting state-owned companies enough autonomy to make decisions based on practicality rather than political influence.

In conclusion, Phiri's commentary is a call to action for Zambians to adopt a more logical and less forgiving stance towards their leaders, advocating for accountability and rational governance. Without such a shift, the cycle of unmet promises and inefficient leadership is likely to continue, leaving citizens to bear the brunt of the consequences.