FORMER Minister of Health, Dr Chitalu Chilufya, has clarified that he has not defected to the United Party for National Development (UPND) from the Patriotic Front (PF).
This statement follows his recent attendance at a state function at Nakambala Sugar in Mazabuka.
Speaking this during Radio Phoenix program, Let the People Talk, Dr Chilufya called for a “detox” in Zambian politics, where opposition Members of Parliament are often discouraged from engaging with ruling party officials.
“I have not defected to the UPND. In fact, my aspirations for the PF presidency remain alive. I am the Member of Parliament for Mansa Central, and I will serve my full term,” he stated.
“I will not slap anyone in their face by defecting. Like all MPs, I swore an oath of allegiance to the Republican President, the Constitution, and the people of Zambia,” Dr Chilufya added.
He commended Nakambala Sugar for its impactful programs and extensive outgrower schemes that support the local community.
Dr Chilufya also dismissed the notion that opposition leaders cannot engage with the ruling party, describing this stance as a “sheer delusion.”
“We need to address development issues together. We must engage with each other constructively, without creating barriers between those in government and the opposition,” he said.
When asked by the host, Luciano Hambote if he would consider a government appointment, Dr Chilufya responded, “I do not believe in speculative politics. We will cross that bridge when we get there.”
He further stressed the need for improvements in Zambia’s health sector and urged the government to enhance services in public health institutions.
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