NHP Accuses UPND Government of Economic Bias Against Zambian-Owned Businesses
The New Heritage Party (NHP) has accused the UPND-led government of unfairly targeting Zambian-owned businesses while extending preferential treatment to foreign-owned enterprises. In a statement issued by NHP Spokesperson Aggephrey Brill, the party alleges financial persecution and systemic suppression of local businesses through excessive taxation and stringent regulations.
Mr. Brill claimed that the government has created an uneven playing field by granting tax holidays and other incentives to non-Zambian-owned businesses while imposing harsh fiscal conditions on local enterprises. “Zambian businesses are overburdened with high taxes and multiple levies, yet foreign investors enjoy significant tax exemptions,” Mr. Brill stated.
Allegations of Institutional Abuse
The NHP spokesperson further accused the government of misusing state institutions such as the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA), police, and local councils to target citizens. He alleged that laws such as the Public Order Act and the Cybercrime Act are being deployed as tools to suppress dissenting voices and stifle public engagement.
“These laws are being weaponized to silence citizens and weaken the resolve of voters, undermining democratic freedoms and discouraging local entrepreneurship,” Mr. Brill added.
Challenges for Local Entrepreneurs
Mr. Brill highlighted specific challenges faced by Zambian business owners. According to him, local enterprises are obligated to pay all royalties, duties, rates, and taxes in full, with no relief or incentives. He pointed out that small-scale businesses, including marketeers and mobile money operators, are disproportionately affected, citing daily market stand fees, toilet user fees, garbage collection fees, and various council levies as examples of the heavy financial burden placed on them.
Call for Policy Reforms
The NHP is calling on the government to reconsider its policies and adopt a more inclusive approach that supports Zambian-owned businesses. The party argues that empowering local enterprises is essential for sustainable economic growth, job creation, and poverty reduction.
“The government must recognize that Zambian businesses are the backbone of the nation’s economy. They deserve equal opportunities and relief from the oppressive tax regimes currently in place,” Mr. Brill emphasized.
Government Response Awaited
As of now, the UPND-led government has not officially responded to the allegations raised by the NHP. However, these claims are likely to spark further debate about the government’s economic policies and their impact on local businesses.
The NHP’s statement reflects growing concerns among stakeholders about the perceived marginalization of Zambian entrepreneurs. As the conversation unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the government will address these concerns or maintain its current trajectory on business and tax policies.
