Zambians have created a united front in opposition to the United States’ plans to build a military base in the country. The campaign’s backers have issued a statement seeking to know whether Zambia can construct a military facility or security post in the US on the same terms as other countries.
Citizen movements have also questioned President Hakainde Hichilema’s alleged leadership involvement in promoting the agreement.
“Can Zambia be allowed to set a military base or a military command centre in America? What constitutional authority does Mr. Hichilema have to permit a foreign army to establish a military base or a military command centre on Zambian soil? Why were the Zambian people not consulted before such a monumental decision with far-reaching consequences was made?” the group asked.
The group also express concern about inheriting the adversaries of the United States if they accept such a pact, since Zambia may become a target. The group has made a number of demands, including the government’s full disclosure of the deal’s contents and the agreement’s immediate termination.
“America is at war with several nations and allowing them to set up a military base here in Zambia directly puts Zambia in harm’s way with all those fighting with America,” they added.