The Patriotic Front has suspended its deputy Secretary General Mumbi Phiri from her position for bad behaviour in relation to a recent incident at which she was reportedly drunk and conducted herself in a manner that humiliated President Edgar Lungu.

Secretary General Davies Mwila announced at a press conference today that Phiri admitted her wrong doings when she appeared before a disciplinary hearing and the party Central Committee that met yesterday resolved to suspend her for 30 days.

“Following allegations of gross misconduct and impropriety levelled against Hon Mumbi Phiri arising from her conduct at a Party fundraising event in Chilanga District, which event was graced by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zambia and Party President for the Patriotic Front Mr Edgar Edgar Chagwa Lungu, a report was tabled before Central Committee to effect the necessary sanction. On 5th March 2018, Honourable Mumbi Phiri was requested to exculpate herself of the alleged bad behaviour reported to have caused embarrassment to the Party President and the Party membership at large and she was further asked to show cause within seven (7) days why disciplinary action should not be taken against her following the allegations,” Mwila explained.

“In her response, Honourable Mumbi Phiri asked for forgiveness as she admitted her wrongs. She maintained the same position during her appearance before the Disciplinary Committee. She was remorseful throughout the disciplinary process and while she deserved stiffer sanctions, Central Committee took into consideration that she was a first time offender and a committed and loyal member of the Party. Honourable Mumbi Phiri has been suspended from Central Committee and from her position as Deputy Secretary General for 30 days effective 24th March 2018.”

He said the Central Committee hoped that Phiri would use the 30 days to reflect and learn.

“This is to remind all of us that Patriotic Front has no sacred cows and shall not tolerate indiscipline from its leaders and members at any given time. Let me send this warning that leaders have a duty to lead by example and must be above board,” Mwila said.

And Mwila also announced that Information Minister Dora Siliya had been appointed chairperson of the sub-committee on information.

The following appointments were ratified by the Central Committee: Honourable Dora Siliya, MCC – Appointment as Chairperson for Information; Honourable Richard Musukwa, Minister of Mines – Appointed as MCC,” said Mwila.