Lungani Zungu
Zambia’s president-elect Hikienda Hichilema seems to have received the nod of approval from Zambian nationals based in South Africa.
Enoch Banda, who owns a chain of salons in Durban, was impressed by the leadership Hichilema displayed while he still worked in the private sector.
“Africa needs leaders like him,” he said.
However, Banda issued a stern warning to Hichilema, that Zambians will turn against him if he fails to keep his promises.
He said outgoing president Edgar Lungu suffered the same fate.
“The only mistake Lungu made was to think that he elected himself to be president. When the people are fed up they will vote you out.”
Hichilema is among just a handful of millionaires in Zambia.
His wily business wit appears to have wooed many Zimbains to vote for him, with the hope that he would rescue the ailing economy and its declining employment rates.
Durban-based Danny Phiri, originally from Kabwe in Zambia said Hichilema inspires confidence.
“I think he is the right man for the job. I hope he keeps all the promises he made during his campaign.”
Phiri landed in South Africa 15 years ago and started his tuck shop, which has now grown to be a supermarket.
“I was pushed out of my country by the brutal government and lack of basic services for rural people.”
His trek to South Africa was in search of greener pastures.
Hichilema defeated Lungu in the country’s presidential election which took place this month.
Lungu, who initially threatened court action, conceded defeat on Monday, clearing the way for Hichilema to secure the nation’s highest office.
During his first speech following his election victory on Monday, Hichilema promised the people of Zambia a better life.
He also vowed that media freedom would not be tampered with – unlike the previous administration.
