Double Standards Worry Social Worker as Government Faces Scrutiny Over Energy and Healthcare Crises

Social worker Joseph Moyo has expressed deep concern over what he describes as government double standards in handling critical national issues, particularly the ongoing energy crisis and the state of public healthcare.

Mr Moyo criticised the government for misleading the public about electricity tariffs and energy supply. Despite three tariff hikes since the United Party for National Development (UPND) took office—each justified as necessary for improving power supply—Zambians continue to endure prolonged load shedding.

“The government and ZESCO assured the public that emergency tariff increases were necessary to import electricity and stabilise supply,” he said. “However, despite citizens paying higher electricity costs, the situation has not improved. This amounts to obtaining money from the public under false pretences—it is both deceptive and unjust.”

He accused the government of shifting its justification for tariff increases over time—first claiming they were needed to attract investment, then to boost ZESCO’s capacity, and now for importing electricity. Yet, none of these measures have brought the promised relief.

Healthcare System Under Pressure

Beyond the energy crisis, Mr Moyo, who suffers from a chronic medical condition, raised concerns about the deteriorating healthcare system. He accused the government of misrepresenting the availability of medicines, saying that many hospitals remain critically understocked despite official claims to the contrary.

“Patients are being turned away from hospitals because there are no medicines, yet the authorities insist there are no shortages,” he said. “We cannot continue to tolerate a government that fails to provide for its people while pretending everything is under control.”

Demand for Accountability

Mr Moyo also pointed to what he called the government's hypocrisy in enforcing laws on misinformation. While ordinary citizens can be arrested for spreading false information, government officials and state-owned enterprises appear to face no consequences for misleading the public.

“If the public spreads falsehoods, they are arrested. But when government officials and state-owned enterprises spread misinformation, there is no accountability,” he said.

He urged the government to engage in transparent communication with citizens and take responsibility for the failures in public services.

“The government must stop misleading the public about electricity, healthcare, and other vital services,” he said. “Zambians deserve truth and accountability, not endless excuses.”

Mr Moyo warned that continued misinformation would further erode public trust and worsen the struggles of ordinary citizens.

“Zambians are tired of empty promises,” he said. “It is time for the government to be truthful, take responsibility, and start delivering real solutions.”