"The President Decided to Publicly Lie About Our Conversations" – Chiinda

NAMWALA – Independent Namwala West parliamentary candidate Lawrence S. Chiinda has accused President Hakainde Hichilema of misrepresenting their private conversations and making what he described as false public statements about him.

In a statement issued from Namwala West, where he said he is continuing his campaign, Mr. Chiinda disputed remarks made by the President regarding his decision to contest the parliamentary seat as an independent candidate.

Mr. Chiinda claimed that President Hichilema did not discourage him from standing as an independent candidate because, according to him, the President was unaware of his intention to contest until after nominations had closed.

He further alleged that the President contacted him several days after nominations and that the two later held a series of conversations, including conference calls involving the UPND's adopted candidate for Namwala West. Mr. Chiinda said he eventually informed the President that he would proceed with his independent candidature.

Addressing allegations that he was found in possession of a firearm at a traditional palace, Mr. Chiinda denied owning a handgun and rejected the accusations against him.

According to Mr. Chiinda, he had gone to serve court documents relating to a civil matter involving communal land when he and his team were allegedly confronted. He claimed the allegations that he produced a firearm were false and noted that no arrests were made in connection with the matter.

Mr. Chiinda also rejected claims that President Hichilema had assisted him politically or personally, challenging the Head of State to publicly identify any support he had allegedly provided.

Instead, Mr. Chiinda said he had supported the UPND before and during the 2021 General Election, claiming he contributed resources and mobilised support for the party in Namwala.

He further described remarks allegedly referring to him as "wasondoka" as unfortunate, adding that he would not be intimidated into withdrawing from the parliamentary race.

Mr. Chiinda concluded by reaffirming his decision to contest the Namwala West seat as an independent candidate and urged voters to support his campaign.