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Policy analyst and outspoken critic of the United Party for National Development (UPND) government, James Musonda, has condemned remarks by Health Minister Muchima, who recently stated that it was not mandatory for the government to employ volunteer doctors.
In a statement issued on Sunday, Musonda described the Minister’s comments as arrogant and disrespectful to the contributions made by health professionals working without pay.
“It is arrogance by Muchima to say that it’s not mandatory for government to employ volunteers — that undermines their contribution,” Musonda charged.
He further criticized what he described as poor leadership and mismanagement in the health sector, arguing that Zambia’s medical system was under strain largely due to policy neglect and misplaced priorities.
“This government has failed to decisively address mismanagement in the health sector. For the Minister to say there is no money to employ doctors, while at the same time advocating for more Members of Parliament through constitutional amendments, is deeply concerning,” he said.
Musonda questioned the government’s focus on expanding Parliament instead of investing in critical healthcare services.
“So all this government wants is more MPs, not more doctors? Let’s be honest — what Zambia lacks today is medical care, not MPs,” he said.
He drew comparisons with former Patriotic Front (PF) lawmakers, noting that many are now facing corruption charges.
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“Where are the MPs from PF today? They are being jailed for abusing public funds. So are we now calling for more people to come and abuse taxpayers’ money?” he asked.
Musonda also alleged that corruption under the current administration remained rampant and unpunished, accusing the government of having its priorities “upside down.”
“This government continues to ignore what is important and chase what is not. How does a Health Minister speak against doctors at a time we are discussing increasing constituencies?” he asked.
He criticised the UPND’s leadership style, warning that arrogance and lack of diplomacy could mirror the mistakes that led to the fall of the previous regime.
“Increasing expenditure on MPs is bad for the country — especially just after commemorating Africa Freedom Day. How can we celebrate freedom like this? The UPND needs to learn to speak with diplomacy. Every day it’s either boosting or dismissing. This is not how you govern,” Musonda said.
He added, “This is the same reason we removed the PF — because they became arrogant. It’s a sad day for Zambia, especially for a government that promised to be methodical. What’s methodical about this?”
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