Paramount chiefs Chikulamayembe and Kyungu have rescinded their decisions to quash federalism in its totality.
The two condemned federalism after presidential adviser on unity and parliamentary affairs Symon Vuwa Kaunda held a series of meetings with chiefs to counter federalism calls.
But speaking in an interview yesterday, Chikulamayembe said he is in full support of federalism and that he gave proponents of federalism a blessing to champion debate, arguing they have genuine reasons.
He said he earlier condemned federalism because the proponents did not consult him as a chief and went ahead to raise the matter in Parliament.
He ruled out being influenced by criticism from Speaker Richard Msowoya who condemned chiefs for rebuffing federalism without properly understanding the concept.
Msowoya dared chiefs at Chikulamayembe’s headquarters where people were commemorating this year’s Gonapamuhanya, a Tumbuka annual festival.
“I am not a chief who can easily be pushed. I am a chief who speaks his mind and I am speaking my mind,” said Chikulamayembe
On his part, Kyungu said he is comfortable with federalism only on the basis that it should be a national call.
He said the North should not be seen to be the only one in support of federalism and advised its proponents to meet people in the Central and Southern regions to establish their stand.
However, Kyungu said he supports rotational presidency, arguing it is the “viable solution to cries of segregation”.
