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Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema Monday, March 31, 2025, sounded alarm over a troubling trend in his cabinet; ministers dozing off during crucial government meetings. The president did not mince words, calling such behavior a “serious crime” that undermines governance and service delivery.
Hichilema made the remarks during the swearing-in of Gift Sialubalo as the new Local Government Minister, an event that quickly turned into a moment of reckoning for his team. While he stopped short of naming specific individuals, he openly criticized the lack of discipline among some officials, hinting that their exhaustion stemmed from “indulgence” and poor self-control.
“In the cabinet, somebody is sleeping for 10 hours—why? Where were they before the meeting?” he asked, adding that such conduct was unacceptable.
Although he did not explicitly define what he meant by “indulgence,” many have taken it as a reference to late-night partying and excessive alcohol consumption. Zambian media outlets were quick to connect the dots, speculating that the president was alluding to ministers whose nocturnal habits were interfering with their official duties.
Hichilema, who swept into office in 2021 on a wave of reformist optimism, has developed a reputation for holding his officials to high standards. His government inherited an economy in turmoil, with massive debt and a struggling copper industry. In response, he has pushed for stringent fiscal discipline and efficiency in government operations. Several high-ranking officials have already been dismissed for underperformance, and Monday’s remarks suggest that more heads could roll if the trend continues.
Beyond falling asleep in meetings, the president expressed concern over the apparent carelessness of some officials when handling state matters. He warned against the growing culture of indiscretion, particularly on social media, where confidential government information sometimes leaks.
“Some of you have developed a knack for sharing state secrets, especially during happy hours,” he observed. “I have advised the cabinet over and over—self-censure is a must. You cannot overindulge and expect to perform.”
The warning suggests a broader worry about professionalism within his administration, particularly as Zambia heads into a highly anticipated election season.
With elections slated for 2026, Hichilema is expected to seek a second term. However, the political landscape is becoming increasingly competitive, with former President Edgar Lungu signaling a possible comeback despite currently being barred from running. Lungu, who lost to Hichilema in a landslide, remains a formidable opponent, and his resurgence has intensified the political stakes.
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