adminThe Rhodesia Herald,
April 20, 1964
NDOLA. – With a massive show of shaking hands, 30 000 Africans roared their support here today for Dr Kaunda’s plan to get independence without another general election.
Dr Kaunda said afterwards: “I am happy about this. There’s absolutely no need for another general election.
“We have trounced the African National Congress on four separate occasions. Elections are too expensive. We need money badly for the development of the country.”
Dr Kaunda said that the Government was asking Britain to allow Northern Rhodesia to become independent and a Republic at the same time.
He said the allegation by the ANC leader, Mr Nkumbula, that Zambia’s republican constitution was a dictatorship was unfounded.
Dr Kaunda urged on the Southern Rhodesia Government for the immediate release of Mr Nkomo.
The political situation in Southern Rhodesia, said Dr Kaunda, “is deteriorating every minute. We cannot see it grow from bad to worse.”
Dr Kaunda revealed that the British Government had agreed to Northern Rhodesia’s request for the release of “political” prisoners. They would be released before independence in October, he said.
Dr Kaunda said the United National Independence Party had caused a major political revolution with little bloodshed because of the co-operation of its followers.
He said Northern Rhodesia was the only colonial country attaining self-government without going to Whitehall.
Earlier in the speech Dr Kaunda warned against activities of certain teachers. He said 99 per cent of the teachers were loyal to the Government. He blamed certain elements in the teachers’ union.
“I am watching their activities very closely. They want us to achieve everything overnight.”
Dr Kaunda said that while advancing Africans to important positions in the Civil Service, he did not want to do away with the services of European Civil Servants.
“I shall not allow anyone to point a pistol at the neck of my Government by threats of strikes,” he said.
LESSONS FOR TODAY
Zambia’s attainment of independence was a very important event in spurring Zimbabweans to fight for self-determination. Nationalist leaders and freedom fighters were able to see for themselves what it was like to gain majority rule.
More importantly, independence in Zambia enabled it to host bases and training camps for Zanla and Zipra forces from which they launched their assault into the country.
Whenever a new dispensation comes into power it is important to give it enough time to settle and roll out its plans.
Online Reporter