Traditional leaders told to get involved in stopping political violence.

President Edgar Lungu says that traditional leaders must be involved in helping to ensure that Zambians do not engage in political violence.
Mr. Lungu says this is because Zambians often listen to traditional leaders whenever they speak out on an issue.
He said this when he paid a courtesy call on Paramount Chief Mpezeni of the Ngoni people at his Iphendukeni Palace.
And President Edgar Lungu also said chiefs must be part of the developmental process in the country.
He says that this can be achieved through traditional leaders showing interest in developmental projects that take place in their areas by ensuring that the works are of high quality.
The president noted that some contractors do not follow specification on the projects, a situation which leads to shoddy works.
And Paramount Chief Mpezeni expressed happiness with the quality of works that have been done so far on the Luangwa Mwami Border road project.
He however said it’s important that other developmental projects that have not yet been completed be completed.
And President Lungu said that government’s plans are to focus on ensuring that all uncompleted projects are worked on.
He says this will be done despite challenges of funding in some instances.
Later the President held a closed door meeting with Paramount Chief Mpezeni and other Ngozi chiefs.
Meanwhile, earlier in the morning, the president toured some markets in Chipata.
At Saturday Market, President Lungu assured traders that the loans being given out to marketeers in other parts of the country will also be extended to Chipata.
He also urged women to fully participate in this year’s elections by taking up various decision making positions.
President Lungu explained that women need to also participate as they have better understanding of issues that affect people from the household level.