TRUTH BUILDS

IN a political landscape where sycophancy often takes precedence over service, UPND national youth chairperson Gilbert Liswaniso’s bold and candid remarks deserve not just acknowledgment, but commendation.

His recent statement – that the ruling party has lost considerable support in Lusaka and the Copperbelt – is not a betrayal of party loyalty, but a reflection of deep patriotism and responsibility.

Leaders like Mr Liswaniso remind us of a truth we too often forget: that honesty, especially in governance, is not opposition – it is accountability.

Mr Liswaniso’s message is simple yet profound – tell the President the truth. He speaks for the people in Marrapodi and many other communities across the nation who feel the pinch of economic hardship, load-shedding and rising public dissatisfaction.

It is not disloyal to echo their frustrations; it is, in fact, a vital part of leadership. Pretending all is well only leads to policy missteps and political blindness.

The culture of shielding presidents from the real sentiments of citizens is one of the most dangerous trends not only in Zambia but in African politics.

Time and again, leaders have fallen not because they lacked intelligence or goodwill, but because those around them painted a false picture of harmony.

In such an environment, presidents make decisions in a vacuum – misguided by filtered reports, edited praise and rehearsed statistics.

Mr Liswaniso’s courage to say that people are saying “kuyabelele” should not be vilified. It should be celebrated. It is this kind of truth-telling that helps leaders make informed decisions.

Whether it’s dissatisfaction with electricity supply, unmet campaign promises, or general economic malaise – ignoring these voices will not silence them. Listening and acting on them will.

It is also important to recognise that Mr Liswaniso has consistently shown a pattern of speaking his mind. His openness is not opportunistic.

He has been a steady voice within UPND calling for self-reflection, strategic communication and grassroots engagement.

At a time when many political figures scramble to say what their superiors want to hear, his stance stands out as refreshingly authentic.

This is precisely the kind of internal honesty that all political parties – ruling or opposition – should emulate. We need leaders who carry the voices of their people to the top, not bury them for political expediency.

We need opposition parties that speak the truth about governance without resorting to mere propaganda and ruling party members who confront uncomfortable realities rather than dismiss them.

President Hakainde Hichilema, to his credit, has been described as open to such feedback. But openness must be fed with honesty. If those around him report only praise, then even a responsive president risks becoming disconnected.

The President must continue creating space for truth-tellers like Mr Liswaniso – not just to speak – but to be heard, respected and acted upon.

If anything, Mr Liswaniso is not a problem for the UPND. He is a wake-up call. His courage to speak the truth should not be silenced – it should be institutionalised.

When leaders are told the truth, they lead better. And when the people’s voices reach the ears of power, democracy works.