Advocate Calls for Merit-Based Government Appointments to Combat Tribalism

 n a passionate plea for unity and progress, Joseph Moyo, founder, and president of The African Woman Foundation and a distinguished gender and development activist, has spoken out against the divisive practice of labeling government appointments as tribalistic.

Moyo's remarks come at a crucial juncture in Zambian politics, as tribal affiliations continue to overshadow merit and qualifications in discussions surrounding government appointments. In a statement to the press, Moyo condemned the tendency to prioritize tribal considerations over the skills and expertise that appointees bring to their roles.

"The cry of tribalism each time the president makes appointments is unrealistic and in itself tribalistic," Moyo asserted, calling attention to the detrimental impact of such attitudes on national cohesion and development. He highlighted the need for a paradigm shift in the way appointments are perceived and evaluated, stressing the importance of meritocracy as the cornerstone of effective governance.

Drawing attention to the broader implications of tribal politics, Moyo criticized opposition leaders for perpetuating a cycle of division by immediately scrutinizing appointments based on tribal backgrounds. "Looking for where all appointees come from is childish and narrow politics," he remarked, urging political stakeholders to prioritize the common good over narrow interests.

Emphasizing Zambia's rich diversity, Moyo underscored the impracticality of expecting every tribe, ethnicity, or region to be represented in every appointment. Instead, he advocated for a collective focus on national development, urging leaders to recognize the value of expertise and competence in driving progress.

As the nation grapples with the complexities of governance and representation, Moyo's call for a merit-based approach to appointments serves as a rallying cry for a more inclusive and equitable political landscape. With his impassioned advocacy for unity and progress, Moyo continues to inspire a renewed commitment to the principles of meritocracy and national unity among Zambians from all walks of life.