Zambia's Lungu fires his white vice president

LUSAKA - President Edgar Lungu has appointed republican vice president Inonge Wina as vice president of the Patriotic Front (PF) replacing Lusaka Central Member of Parliament (MP) Guy Scott.

President Lungu has also appointed PF legal and disciplinary committee chairperson Ngosa Simbyakula as national chairperson of the ruling party with immediate effect.

Dr Simbyakula takes over from Ms Wina who is also Nalolo MP.

According to a statement released on Thursday to the media by special Assistant to the President for Press and Public Relations, Amos Chanda, the duo's appointments are pursuant to the powers vested in President Lungu under Article 16 of the PF constitution.

President Lungu has demanded a clear line of command and authority in the ruling party and Government ahead of the 2016 general elections.

He said he was confident that Ms Wina and Dr Simbyakula would effectively work with PF Secretary General, Davies Chama to mobilise the party at all levels.

"These appointments will help a great deal in the synchronisation of the party and Government activities and eliminate as many areas of conflict of authority as possible by making it clear that the State and party vice-president will deputise me smoothly."