MINES minister Richard Musukwa says the challenges at Konkola Copper Mines are greater than what is being portrayed in the media. Musukwa has challenged United Party for National Development leader Hakainde Hichilema to offer solutions on issues surrounding KCM. He said instead of issuing negative remarks in the media, the UPND leader should suggest workable solutions to the government. Musukwa was reacting to remarks by the UPND leader when he featured on Hot FM’s ‘Breakfast Show’ in Lusaka on Friday.

He said Hichilema’s attacks in the media over KCM were meant to discredit the PF government as though it does not mean well for the people of Zambia. Musukwa insisted that the government’s decision to ‘provisionally liquidate’ KCM was done to save the mine and protect interests of the people. He said all key contractors and suppliers had already given notice to KCM to withdraw their services before the liquidator came in.

Musukwa urged Hichilema to get facts right before issuing damaging statements to the media. He said to resolve issues at KCM, there was need for Zambians to work together regardless of political affiliation. Musukwa said the government was doing everything to restore confidence in both local and foreign contractors working with KCM. He said the government continued to ensure that the mining industry was private-sector driven anchored on a fiscal regime which is derived from the rule of law.

This is according to a statement issued by Lucy Shawa, the Ministry of Mines public relations officer.