Africa-Press – Zambia. Zambia’s Socialist President Dr Fred M’membe has released a statement criticizing the use of the title “Father of the Nation,” calling it dangerous paternalism and inconsistent with democracy in a modern society. In the statement, M’membe noted that in traditional societies, a father cannot be openly criticized or differed with, and his position of “Father” cannot be challenged or contested.
“To call every President of the Republic of Zambia ‘Father of the Nation’ is dangerous paternalism. This is inconsistent with democracy in a modern society,” M’membe said in the statement.
He went on to explain that the use of such a title in a democratic society can be problematic, as it can create a perception of a leader who cannot be questioned or challenged. “To call Mr Hakainde Hichilema as Father of the Nation is absurd. Zambia was not born yesterday. No one is Father, all are sons and daughters. Some prove themselves worthy, some not,” M’membe added.
M’membe’s statement has sparked a debate among Zambians on the use of such titles in the country. Some have praised M’membe’s stance, while others have criticized it, arguing that the title “Father of the Nation” is an important symbol of national unity and a recognition of the contributions made by past leaders.
The debate has been particularly heated on social media, with many Zambians taking to Twitter and Facebook to express their opinions. Some have applauded M’membe’s position, with one Twitter user stating, “I fully agree with President M’membe. The title ‘Father of the Nation’ is outdated and creates a perception of a leader who cannot be challenged.”
Others have taken issue with M’membe’s stance, with one Facebook user writing, “I think President M’membe is missing the point. The title ‘Father of the Nation’ is an important symbol of national unity and a recognition of the contributions made by past leaders. It is not about creating a perception of a leader who cannot be challenged.”
The statement by Zambia’s Socialist President has opened up an important conversation about the role of such titles in a modern society and what they mean for democracy and political legitimacy. As M’membe notes, in traditional societies, a father cannot be openly criticized or differed with, and his position of “Father” cannot be challenged or contested. This can create a perception of a leader who cannot be questioned or challenged, which can be problematic in a democratic society.
The use of such titles in a modern society like Zambia may need to be re-evaluated. As M’membe notes, “We may print images of Zambians from different walks of life, who brought glory or did a great service, on our currency, if it is felt necessary.”
This suggests that rather than bestowing the title “Father of the Nation” on one individual, there are other ways to recognize the contributions of past leaders and promote national unity.
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