The Government of Zambia has officially disavowed inflammatory statements made by Mafinga Member of Parliament and opposition Patriotic Front (PF) leader, Mr. Robert Chabinga, during a press conference held on 2nd May 2025. Chabinga’s comments, widely perceived as provocative and critical of foreign diplomats, have sparked alarm among both local observers and members of the diplomatic community.
In response, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation issued a firm and detailed statement on 5th May 2025, making it clear that Chabinga’s views do not reflect the policies or principles of the Zambian Government. The statement emphasized that Zambia remains firmly committed to international diplomacy, mutual respect, and lawful engagement with its global partners.
According to the Ministry, the Government’s foreign policy is rooted in the principles of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations (1961), which guides how diplomats are to be treated and how they should conduct themselves in host countries. Zambia reaffirmed its role as a responsible member of the international community, stressing its dedication to upholding the rights, privileges, and immunities of all diplomats stationed in the country.
“The views expressed by Mr. Robert Chabinga are not those of the Government,” the Ministry said. “Zambia values its bilateral and multilateral partnerships and will continue to engage in diplomacy based on respect, legality, and mutual benefit.”
In its official communication, the Ministry expressed appreciation for the work of diplomatic missions in Zambia, particularly their contributions to the country’s social and economic development. At the same time, it reminded all diplomats to remain within the boundaries of international diplomatic norms, including the principle of non-interference in the domestic affairs of their host country.
The Government also used the occasion to caution political figures and institutions against making unauthorized statements on foreign policy. “Matters of diplomatic conduct and accreditation fall solely under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation,” the statement read. “No other individual or political entity has the mandate to represent the Government’s stance on such issues.”
The Ministry underscored that while Zambia encourages free expression and political debate, any discourse—particularly on matters of international relations—must be handled responsibly to protect the nation’s diplomatic credibility and foreign relations.
In closing, Foreign Affairs Minister Hon. Mulambo Haimbe reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to maintaining respectful and mutually advantageous international ties, reinforcing that inflammatory rhetoric has no place in the country’s diplomatic framework.
This clear stance by the Government not only distances it from the controversy but also reasserts Zambia’s image as a stable and diplomatically respectful nation.