The first two MMD administrations in Zambia: Millennium dawn or millennium sunset?

Abstract

In Millennium Dawn the government of Zambia outlines the achievements of the first two administrations of the Movement for Multi-party Democracy (1991-6, 1996-2001) and indicates the challenges that still lie ahead. This article offers an alternative assessment of the government's performance in economic, social and political development and its contribution to democratic progress. First it introduces the different criteria that could be employed for the purpose of evaluating performance, compares their limitations and identifies the most relevant units of assessment. After detailing initiatives taken by the government and some notable failures and areas of neglect, it concludes by placing the overall record in perspective, explaining what has made the government so vulnerable to criticism and suggesting some pointers to the future. Can opposites attract? Monetary union and the social market