Government has distanced itself from recent attacks on High Commissioners and Ambassadors accredited to Zambia, made by Opposition Leader ROBERT CHABINGA.
The remarks, issued during a press conference held on Friday, May 2nd, 2025, have drawn widespread attention and sparked significant concern.
Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister MULAMBO HAIMBE says the views expressed by Mr. CHABINGA, who is also Mafinga Member of Parliament, do not reflect the official position, policy, or diplomatic posture of the Republic of Zambia. 
Mr. HAIMBE says Zambia remains a sovereign state, fully committed to engaging constructively with development partners, both at bilateral and multilateral levels in accordance with the country’s Foreign Policy.
He says Zambia, as a responsible and active member of the international community, upholds the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations -1961, which provides a framework for the conduct of diplomats while serving in a host country and the mutual respect that underpins relations between the receiving and sending states.
Mr. HAIMBE has since affirmed Government’s appreciation of the important role that members of the Diplomatic Community continue to play towards Zambia’s development agenda.
In a statement to ZNBC News today, Mr. HAIMBE said Government remains fully committed to ensuring that the Diplomats enjoy privileges and immunities while serving in Zambia and will endeavor to create a conducive environment in which they can carry out their functions without fear, prejudice, or undue interference.
He said Government has recognized that diplomats have a duty to respect the laws and regulations of the receiving state, including the requirement not to interfere in the internal affairs of the host country.
Mr. HAIMBE has reminded the public, political leaders and other stakeholders that matters relating to the accreditation, engagement, and conduct of Foreign Diplomats fall solely within the purview of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.
He said that no individual or political entity is authorized to speak or act on behalf of the Government in these matters.
Mr. HAIMBE said while Zambia welcomes robust political discourse as part of a healthy democratic environment, it is imperative that all political actors exercise responsibility in their public statements, particularly on matters of Foreign Relations.
He said inflammatory statements have the potential to undermine Zambia’s diplomatic engagements and harm the country’s standing within the global community.
Mr. HAIMBE said the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation remains committed to maintaining cordial, respectful, and mutually beneficial relations with all nations.
