There is the temptation to believe that everyone in government is a seasoned politician. This may not always be the case, as sometimes technocrats and those with specialized knowledge take up national seats. However, some seats, such as the Presidency, may require more than just a strong vision for the country.
Chishala Kateka is a new entry into the political playing field. Having left her corporate job last year, she resurrected the Heritage Party, now known as the New Heritage Party. Despite having years of banking experience under her belt, she traded in her tools to tackle the presidency and has since filed in her nomination.
This is a brave move, and must be commended, as Ms Kateka is the only female presidential candidate who has stepped up to the plate. It is often said that politics is a game without morals, but Kateka’s vision highlights morality and dignity as guiding principles for her party, and of course her vision for the nation.
Much of her manifesto is focused on economic revival, with a bold promise of growing the economy to US$45 million, by 2030. Using her experience, as a banker Ms Kateka intends to unlock the economic potential of Zambia.
Much of Kateka’s work, is in the corporate world and her achievements are clear to see, but is heading a business the same as heading public office? The challenges she may have faced cannot be compared to the mammoth task of running a whole nation.
Kateka proposes an economic solar system that places agriculture, financial services, transport and storage, energy and mining at the centre, while sectors such as manufacturing, tourism and construction shall contribute to the value addition of the economy. Right on the periphery is public administration, education and health, which are enablers to her economic system. The idea is for the economy to be entirely self sufficient.
Her plans for the country are certainly courageous and enormous. While she has a proven track record in top level management, her lack of known political knowledge might be worrying to some of her followers.
However, we cannot disqualify Kateka simply because she does not have a very extensively known political experience. In her press briefing she clearly indicated that the fact that she successfully filed her nomination is an indication is that she and her party have put in the work behind the scenes. And to this effect, there is of course the historical background of the party, the Heritage Party was formed in 2001, and before she reinstated it, she was a founding member.
There is no doubt about it; Ms Kateka is a very smart and qualified woman. Her track record in corporate governance is an indication that she is a good leader, and as such she should not be written off. Her political journey to the polls, is one to watch, if not with excitement, then certainly with optimism for the new women in politics.
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