22 October 2009
editorial
IT is shocking, to say the least, the levels of desperation being demonstrated by some of the so-called leaders in the opposition.
Not only is it mischievous but also malicious that some one can dream up some form of State conspiracy to sabotage Zambia's agriculture sector and food security by creating a countrywide fuel shortage.
Just how is it possible that President Rupiah Banda can plug fuel supplies so that his sons can import genetically modified organism (GMO) maize into the country? It really beats the mind!
For sure, this nation needs better leaders than mercenaries like United Party for National Development (UPND) Hakainde Hichilema who are ready to make unsubstantiated allegations on serious matters purely for political expedience.
This idea of jumping on the bandwagon and making political cacophony over matters that are strictly administrative and logistical will not help this nation at all.
Even if Mr Hichilema went into Government today, he would soon realise that he has very little control over logistics such as moving tankers laden with several thousands of litres of petroleum and by road for that matter.
Secondly there are administrative procedures to follow before import duty waivers can be effected to allow oil marketing companies (OMCs) to import additional litres of petrol.
Government is doing everything possible to normalise the fuel stocks in the country.
The president has issued instructions to the Ministry of Energy and Water Development to allow the OMCs to import more petroleum products above what the Government is already bringing in.
It is also apparent the shortage is more on petrol than diesel because OMCs have been bringing in diesel for their bulk customers even in times when Indeni Petroleum Refinery was operating at full capacity.
This means that critical sectors such as the mines and agriculture are not affected by the fuel shortage.
And, as has been said before, there is still a lot of panic buying among motorists, which should be discouraged as this has effectively distorted the national daily demand for fuel.
People like Mr Hichilema should try to understand the situation first before opening their mouths to demonstrate ignorance. The current fuel crisis calls for more concerted efforts than mere political rhetoric and cynicism.
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