Lungani Zungu
Recently-elected Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema promised the more than 17 million Zambians that he would bring change – and it appears the change has started.
After just two weeks in office after defeating Edgar Lungu, he has axed military chiefs and brought in new police commissioners signalling a new chapter for his people.
On Sunday, Hichilema announced Lieutenant-General Dennis Alibuzwi as the new army commander who will be deputised by Major-General Geoffrey Zyeele.
He also named Remmy Kajoba as the new Inspector-General of Police with Milner Muyambango as his deputy for operations.
Doris Chibombe will serve as deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Administration.
The sacked military chiefs and police commissioners were accused of being iron-fisted during the tenure of Edgar Lungu. Hichilema himself is the victim of police heavy-handedness as he was arrested in 2016 on charges of treason.
During his announcement of the new appointments, he urged police to conduct thorough checks before detaining suspects.
“No one should be arrested before investigations are concluded,” he said.
During his inauguration speech last week, Hichilema vowed to end what he termed “political thuggery”.
Image source: @TheEconomist
