Tonse Alliance in Southern Province criticises Government over Church tensions, farmer payments

By Chali Mulenga
Livingstone, Southern Province

Tonse Alliance Southern Province chairperson Omar Munsanje has criticised the government for what he described as confrontational handling of national challenges, particularly its strained relationship with the Church and delays in payments to farmers.

Mr Munsanje said the province was disappointed that government responses to criticism now appeared combative, warning that tensions between the State and the clergy set a “very bad precedent” for the country.

“It is unfortunate that it now looks as if the government is fighting the clergy,” Mr Munsanje said. “When the party in government was in opposition, it was supported by the same Church, clergy and civil society organisations. Now, when these same institutions try to advise, they are treated as enemies.”

His remarks follow public debate surrounding comments and actions involving Catholic Church leaders, including Archbishop Alick Banda, which have fuelled perceptions of growing tension between government and the Church.

Mr. Munsanje accused the government of inconsistency, saying while officials publicly call on the Church to pray for and guide the nation, their actions suggest intolerance of criticism.

“What is happening is very unfortunate and contradicts what government leaders say publicly,” he said. “If they stood by what they talk about reconciliation and order, we would not be where we are now.”

On agriculture, Mr Munsanje said the government had failed to honour its promise to complete payments to farmers by the 10th of the month, noting continued queues at banks across the province.

“We have been consistent in saying that the UPND government has not been truthful from the word go,” he said. “Time and again, promises are made and not actualised. Farmers were told payments would be done by the 10th, but that has not happened.”

He also questioned statements by President Hakainde Hichilema that funds had been released but payments were slow, arguing that setting a deadline implied government had already calculated its capacity to pay.

“To now say the process is slow is just moving a lie from one position to another,” Mr Munsanje said.

Mr Munsanje further dismissed government claims that economic indicators, such as currency appreciation, were benefiting ordinary Zambians, saying there was no tangible impact on the cost of living.

“We have not seen fuel prices coming down. We have not seen the cost of goods coming down. Everything is skyrocketing,” he said. “If the currency is appreciating, the benefits must be felt on the ground. Otherwise, this looks like a cooked exchange.”

Looking ahead to the 2026 general election, Mr Munsanje urged Zambians to “do the correct thing” by voting for change, accusing the current administration of lacking clear priorities that address the needs of the general public.

“We must move out leaders who keep lying to the people and usher in a government that puts Zambia first,” he said.