Zambian opposition urged to accept call for unity

Foreign diplomats in Zambia have advised losing opposition parties in just-ended elections to accept the call for reconciliation made by President Levy Mwanawasa to spearhead economic development of the country.

U.S. Ambassador Carmen Martinez was quoted by Wednesday's Zambia Daily Mail as saying political leaders who was defeated in the elections should consider accepting the call of reconciliation because it is an important recipe for the country's economic development.

She urged the politicians to bury their differences and continue working together in a bid to reduce poverty for Zambians.

Zambia has now become a shining example in the world in enhancing democracy which is marred with blood shed in several African countries, she said.

British High Commissioner Alistair Harrison hailed Zambians for conducting peaceful elections which he said is an important step in enhancing democracy.

He also urged the politicians to work together and respect the people's will by accepting the election results that saw Mwanawasa enter into a second term of office.

World Bank country representative Ohene Nyanin said the elections are over and the international financial institution is looking forward to continuing working with the new government.

Nyanin said the new government should ensure that they involve ordinary citizens in poverty reduction programs.

The representative urged the government to focus on employment creation in the private sector and invest in primary economic development and service delivery to the people.

Source: Xinhua