Edgar Lungu Rallies Opposition to Unite Ahead of 2026 General Elections

 Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu has issued a rallying cry to the opposition Tonse Alliance, urging them to intensify their political efforts as the 2025 general elections approach. Lungu declared that 2025 is not the year for political neutrality, emphasizing the need for collective action to provide robust checks and balances to the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND). Speaking during the formal admission of the Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD) into the Tonse Alliance, Lungu stressed the importance of building a united front. “2025 will be different. This is the time for action, not sitting on the fence. We must work together to protect our democracy and offer the Zambian people a strong alternative,” he said, urging other organizations to join the alliance and strengthen its base. FDD Vice President Chifumo Banda echoed Lungu’s sentiments, calling for unity of purpose among opposition parties. Banda underscored the importance of not underestimating their political rivals, urging members of the alliance to remain vigilant and focused on the shared goal of bringing about change. The Tonse Alliance, which comprises various opposition parties, has been vocal about its mission to challenge the UPND’s governance and ensure accountability. The inclusion of the FDD marks a significant expansion of the coalition, which continues to position itself as a formidable force ahead of the high-stakes elections. With political tensions already rising, Lungu’s call for intensified efforts and greater unity sets the stage for what promises to be a fiercely contested electoral season. The coming months will reveal whether the opposition can capitalize on its momentum to present a cohesive and compelling alternative to the Zambian electorate.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Unveiling the Hidden Tax Hikes: Zambia Faces Economic Shockwaves

Image
IN A MOVE that has caught many by surprise, several significant tax changes have been introduced outside the official 2025 Budget framework. These changes, which were neither highlighted by the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA), the Zambia Institute for Policy Analysis and Research (ZIPAR), nor the Ministry of Finance, have sparked widespread concern among citizens and businesses alike. The recent tax adjustments are believed to stem from the second supplementary budget or emergency revisions to the National Borrowing Plan. This follows a special session of Parliament convened by Speaker Nelly Mutti to deliberate on the Planning and Budgeting Committee’s report regarding the Revised Annual Borrowing Plan for 2024. Key Tax Changes Unveiled Property Transfer Tax : The tax on the sale of land, buildings, and shares has surged from 5% to 8%. Rental Income Tax : Individuals earning rental income above K800,000 annually will now pay 16%, up from the previous 12.5%. Turnover Tax : The turnover ...
Read more

Tribalism in Full Force Under Hakainde Hichilema’s UPND Administration

Image
  By Thandiwe Ketis Ngoma The rise of President Hakainde Hichilema’s United Party for National Development (UPND) administration was met with high expectations for unity, economic recovery, and a fair governance system. However, instead of fostering national cohesion, the administration has entrenched tribal divisions, raising serious concerns about its commitment to an inclusive Zambia. One of the most alarming aspects of this administration is its blatant and aggressive tribal favoritism.  Appointments to key government positions, distribution of national resources, and access to justice have been overwhelmingly skewed in favor of individuals from the Southern, Western, and Northwestern provinces—regions considered strongholds of UPND support.  Meanwhile, Zambians from other ethnic backgrounds, particularly Bembas and Easterners, are being systematically sidelined, persecuted, and unfairly targeted through government institutions such as the courts and the police. ...
Read more

AKAFUMBA PREVENTED FROM GREETING HH

Image
  Credible sources within UPND have disclosed that fired Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security Permanent Secretary Joseph Akafumba was trying to meet President Hakainde Hichilema but was curtailed by his security detail. The security comprises the very Police whom Akafumba was commanding and dictating before his fate yesterday. Akafumba was removed as PS and has been put on "waiting to be deployed" list which is obviously a demotion. He is likely to be shunted somewhere as a diplomat. However, the sources who are within the ruling party but are happy that Akafumba's wings have been trimmed, say they are elated by President Hichilema's move because the NDC faction leader became big headed and stopped picking calls from ordinary party members. "These are results of being pompous and thinking you're the Boss. Akafumba has not been adding value to the party. In fact he has been making the President look bad" a UPND member who opted not to be mention...
Read more