VEEP has instruments of power

From the ZNBC website (23/07/08)

Chief government spokesperson, Mike Mulongoti has dismissed rumours that before his departure for Egypt, President Levy Mwanawasa left the instruments of power with defence minister George Mpombo.
Mr. Mulongoti, who is also Information Minister, says Vice President Rupiah Banda is fully in charge of all government functions.
He says Mr. Banda is receiving support from all line ministries in implementing various government programmes.
Mr. Mulongoti was speaking during a live National watch programme on ZNBC TV Monday night.
He assured the nation that cabinet will continue implementing various government programmes despite the Zambian leader's absence.
Meanwhile, Mr. Mulongoti has reiterated that President Mwanawasa is recovering well in Paris, France.
Mr. Mulongoti said people should trust governemnt updates on the condition of the President.
He said government is grateful to the local and international community for the goodwill they have extended to the first family and government.
President Mwanawasa is admitted to Percy military hospital in Paris, France.


I hope this will put to bed rumours that have been circulating on the a number of blogs that there is a power struggle between the Vice President and Minister of Defence over the control of GRZ. As I pointed out in one of my earlier postings on the illness of the President, it is very important for govt to provide as much information as possible on the prevailing situation to stop unfounded rumours gaining momentum. I know they can not comb every blog and website to gauge what people are saying but it is important that the general public have accurate and up to date information on the situation.

The PANEL