Chief Kasomalwela cautions traditional leaders against endorsing politicians

Chief Kasomalwela of the Ushi people in Chembe District has cautioned fellow traditional leaders against publicly endorsing political figures, describing the practice as a threat to democratic integrity and the neutrality expected of chiefs.

The traditional leader specifically raised concern over some chiefs from Eastern Province who have openly expressed support for certain politicians, urging them to reconsider the broader implications of such actions.

In a statement issued in Chembe on Tuesday, Chief Kasomalwela stressed that traditional leaders held significant influence over their subjects, and that public political alignment risked being interpreted as direction rather than personal opinion.

“As traditional leaders, it is a grave mistake to openly endorse one politician over another. All politicians are our children, and as their parents, we must not be seen to favor one over the other,” he said.

He added that while chiefs might have personal preferences, these should not be expressed publicly, as doing so compromised their role as neutral custodians of unity and guidance within communities.

The traditional leader further warned that such endorsements could distort the democratic process by unduly influencing citizens’ choices.

“Our role is to bless and guide all aspirants equally, not to impose our preferences on the people. A single statement from a chief can easily be taken as instruction,” he noted.

Chief Kasomalwela also described the conduct of some of his counterparts as “thoughtless,” emphasizing that traditional leaders must remain mindful of their responsibility to promote national unity rather than political division.

He revealed that he intended to formally raise the matter at an upcoming provincial meeting, noting that political involvement by traditional leaders undermined principles of impartiality and good governance.

The Chief reiterated the need for all traditional leaders to uphold democratic values, reminding them that their primary duty was to serve, guide and unite their people without aligning with any political faction.

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