Chikwanda’s contradictions on subsidies is confusing – FDD

The opposition Forum for Democracy and Development(FDD) has observed that Finance Minister Alexander Chikwanda is contradicting himself on the funds that have been saved from the suspended subsidies on fuel and maize.
FDD spokesperson Antonio Mwanza has told Qfm that this is because almost two weeks ago, the Minister himself said there was nothing that was being saved from subsidies and last week in parliament Mr. Chikwanda went on to disclose that some funds had actually been saved.

Mr. Mwanza notes that the change in statements is also confusing the people of Zambia hence the need for the government to clearly explain to the people and make them understand the issue of funds being saved from the suspended subsidies.

He notes that if government has saved 5.5 billion kwacha, the results should also be seen as such an amount is a huge sum of money.

The FDD spokesperson states that government should further keep it in mind that the removal of subsidies on fuel and maize had been received with mixed feelings by the people in the country and therefore it is important that government is clear on the issue to avoid further debates.

He has further urged the Finance Minister to be sure of what he tells the nation especially if what he is to say are issues of national concern.