ZAMBIAN PRESIDENT SKIPS HARARE SUMMIT, ADDRESSES SADC VIA VIDEO LINK

In a surprising move, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema chose not to attend the Southern African Development Community (SADC) organ troika summit in person. Instead, he addressed the summit via video link from Lusaka, the capital of Zambia. This decision has sparked much discussion and speculation, especially given the sometimes tense relations between Zambia and Zimbabwe.

The SADC organ troika summit is a crucial event where regional leaders discuss politics, defense, security cooperation, and other important matters that affect the Southern African region. Hichilema, as the outgoing chairperson of the SADC organ on politics, defense, and security cooperation, had a significant role in this year’s summit. He was set to hand over the chairmanship to Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan.

Despite the importance of this event, Hichilema did not travel to Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe, where the summit was held. Instead, he chose to stay in Lusaka and connect to the summit via video link. This decision is noteworthy because Lusaka is only a 30-minute flight away from Harare. Many people are questioning why he did not make the short trip.

No official explanation has been given for Hichilema’s decision to stay in Zambia. This has led to various speculations. Some believe that it may be linked to the complex and sometimes strained relationship between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Others think there could be reasons related to security or health concerns, but nothing has been confirmed.

During his video address, President Hichilema focused on the important work done by the SADC organ under his leadership. He highlighted the efforts to consolidate democracy, mediate conflicts, and ensure regional security and stability. Hichilema emphasized the importance of these goals for the peace and prosperity of the Southern African region.

He spoke about how the SADC organ has worked hard to promote democracy in the region. This includes efforts to support fair and free elections in member states and to encourage good governance practices. Hichilema also mentioned the organ’s role in conflict mediation, helping to resolve disputes between countries and within countries in a peaceful way. He stressed that this work is vital for maintaining stability in the region.

As he handed over the chairmanship to President Hassan of Tanzania, Hichilema expressed confidence in her ability to continue the work of the SADC organ. He noted that Tanzania has a long history of contributing to peace and stability in the region and that he is sure the organ will continue to thrive under her leadership.

The decision of President Hichilema to not attend the summit in person has left many questions unanswered. Some wonder if this could signal deeper issues between Zambia and Zimbabwe, or if it was simply a matter of convenience or caution on Hichilema’s part. Without an official statement explaining his absence, it is difficult to know for sure.

What is clear, however, is that the work of the SADC organ is vital for the region. The challenges of consolidating democracy, mediating conflicts, and maintaining regional security are significant, and the leaders of the SADC member states have an important role to play in addressing them. Hichilema’s remarks during the summit showed his commitment to these goals, even if his physical absence from Harare raised eyebrows.

As the new chairperson, President Hassan will now take on the responsibility of guiding the SADC organ. Many will be watching to see how she leads the group and whether she will continue the work started by Hichilema in strengthening democracy, peace, and security in the Southern African region.