Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary Joel Kamoko became the center of public attention last evening following an interview on ZNBC TV news where he appeared to be drunk and disoriented. The interview, which quickly went viral on social media, showcased the PS struggling to comprehend questions and offering responses that were both disjointed and unrelated to the topics at hand.
In one instance, when asked about improving planning in the education sector, Kamoko’s response raised eyebrows: “Let’s put our money to our mouth, and let’s make the teachers know we mean well. And two, as we do the soft copies right now, you know the world has changed huh! We have gone digital, while people are waiting for hard copy, we have gone soft copy.”
The baffling statement left viewers questioning both the content and delivery of his message.
Social Media Outrage
The interview sparked a storm of reactions on social media platforms, with many Zambians expressing disappointment and demanding accountability. Some criticized Kamoko’s conduct as unprofessional and unbecoming of a senior government official, especially one tasked with overseeing the country’s education sector.
“This is unacceptable. How can a Permanent Secretary, a representative of the government, appear on national television in such a state? The education sector deserves better leadership,” one Twitter user commented.
Others called for an investigation into the incident, questioning whether this behavior reflects broader issues within the Ministry of Education’s leadership.
Unanswered Questions
The interview became even more peculiar when Kamoko was asked about the readiness of schools to embrace new reforms. His response appeared incoherent, leaving viewers puzzled about the Ministry’s plans. Critics have pointed out that such public appearances, if not handled appropriately, risk undermining public confidence in the government’s ability to manage critical sectors like education.
Calls for Action
Following the backlash, advocacy groups and members of the public have urged the government to address the matter promptly. Many are calling for an explanation from both Kamoko and the Ministry of Education to clarify the situation.
Leadership integrity is seen as crucial, particularly in a ministry tasked with shaping the future of Zambia’s education system. Observers argue that this incident underscores the need for professional standards and accountability among public officials.
Government Silence
As of this morning, the Ministry of Education had not issued a statement regarding the viral video. Efforts to reach Kamoko for comment were unsuccessful.
The incident has reignited conversations about the importance of leadership ethics and the public image of government officials. Zambians now await a response from the Ministry to address both the controversy and the broader implications it raises for the education sector.