Leadership Choices Will Determine Zambia’s Economic Destiny, Musokotwane Tells Parliament

 

Finance and National Planning Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane has told citizens that the trajectory of Zambia’s prosperity rests heavily on the quality of leadership they choose, urging voters to prioritise competence and continuity if the country is to attain development standards comparable to nations such as Mauritius.

Addressing Parliament during deliberations on governance and economic strategy, Dr. Musokotwane underscored that economic transformation is neither accidental nor automatic. It is the product of deliberate policy direction, disciplined governance and sustained long-term planning.

He said countries that achieve stability and sustained growth do so under leadership that remains consistent, accountable and focused on national interest. In that regard, he noted, democratic participation carries significant responsibility.

“Economic outcomes are shaped by leadership decisions made over time,” he told lawmakers, adding that voters must carefully evaluate those seeking public office. According to the minister, sound economic management requires technical competence, fiscal discipline and unwavering commitment to national development objectives.

Drawing parallels with nations that have recorded steady progress, Dr. Musokotwane observed that prosperity does not emerge by chance. Rather, it grows from predictable policy frameworks, institutional integrity and governance systems that promote productivity and attract investment.

The minister also addressed concerns over economic pressures confronting households, including the rising cost of living. He assured Parliament that government policies are designed to stabilise the economy while shielding citizens from external shocks. Responsible leadership, he said, creates an environment in which businesses can plan with confidence and communities can anticipate steady progress.

Dr. Musokotwane stressed the importance of maintaining economic discipline across public institutions, cautioning against short-term political considerations that undermine long-term national goals. He stated that Zambia’s development path depends on sustaining reforms aimed at restoring macroeconomic stability and strengthening investor confidence.

His remarks resonated within the chamber as legislators reflected on the link between governance, democratic choice and economic performance. The minister maintained that informed voting decisions reinforce institutional stability and ensure continuity in national programmes.

He further called on citizens to scrutinise policy proposals carefully, emphasising that development is a shared responsibility between leadership and the electorate. The choices made at the ballot, he argued, have far-reaching implications for the country’s economic direction.

Dr. Musokotwane concluded by affirming Zambia’s potential to achieve higher levels of prosperity through disciplined economic stewardship. He said realising that potential will require unity, sustained reforms and a commitment to policies that stimulate growth across key sectors, including industry, agriculture and tourism.

The address formed part of a broader parliamentary engagement on governance and economic strategy, reinforcing the message that the leadership decisions made today will shape Zambia’s economic future for years to come.