Checking of spouses’ phones responsible for high divorce rates – Zambian President, Hakainde Hichilema

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has advised his people to avoid examining their spouses’ phones. His remarks were part of a call to reduce divorce rates in the country.

According to records, the country had over 22,000 divorce cases last year alone, which the president called regrettable.

Some of the most common reasons for divorce that were brought up in court were lack of conjugal rights, adultery, gender-based violence, insults, and cruelty.

“We marry for love, we don’t marry to go and check each other out, or to go and point a finger,” local media quoted Mr. Hichilema as saying when he welcomed local monarchs, HM Paramount Chief Mpezeni and Chief Maguya of the Ngoni-speaking people.

“It is our job to limit our freedom while not interfering with the freedom of others. Be patient and understanding.” the president is said to have added.

According to data from the previous 12 months, the shortest marriage in the country lasted 30 days, while the oldest lasted 65 years.