Democratic Party leader Harry Kalaba has accused President Edgar Lungu of promoting tribalism and dividing the country.

He says the President must focus on national unity and economic growth.

Meanwhile, Patriots for Economic Progress President, Sean Tembo has urged President Lungu to consider withdrawing the remarks.

The two opposition leaders were referring to president Lungu’s recent remarks that time has not yet come for a southerner to lead the nation.

But President Lungu on Sunday, told the media in Solwezi that a republican president will one day emerge from southern province, but not the current UPND leader.