The Catholic Diocese of Kasama, through Archbishop Most Reverend Ignatius Chama, has issued a strong call to Zambia’s Patriotic Front (PF) party, urging them to prioritize unity and elect a substantive leader. This directive aims to strengthen the party's capacity to function effectively as a credible opposition within Zambia’s democratic landscape. Speaking during a significant meeting with PF presidential candidate Makebi Zulu in Kasama, Archbishop Chama emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that “Time is not on your side. The Patriotic Front must put its house in order by uniting and electing a substantive leader.”

Archbishop Chama further elaborated on the critical need for the former ruling party to resolve its internal differences and avoid divisions that could pull members in disparate directions. He stressed that a divided party cannot effectively serve its role, advising, “You cannot effectively serve as a credible opposition when you are divided. Resolve your differences and avoid divisions that may weaken the party.” The Archbishop underscored that unity and clear leadership are indispensable for the PF to meaningfully contribute to Zambia’s democratic space.

In response to Archbishop Chama's counsel, PF presidential candidate Makebi Zulu assured the Archbishop of the party's unwavering commitment to electing a substantive leader before the close of the current month. Mr. Zulu openly acknowledged the internal and external influences that the Patriotic Front has been contending with, which he noted were allegedly orchestrated by individuals seeking to weaken and destabilize the party. Despite these challenges, Mr. Zulu asserted, “We are aware of external influences from certain individuals who are allegedly seeking to weaken and destabilize the party, but we remain focused.”

Expressing profound confidence, Mr. Zulu affirmed his belief that the Patriotic Front would successfully overcome its current challenges, emerging as a stronger, more united force under a singular leadership. He further articulated his conviction that he is uniquely positioned to become the unifying leader of the party. Mr. Zulu pledged to steer the PF towards renewed strength and purpose, driven by a clear vision for leading Zambians toward a better future. “I have faith and believe that I am well-positioned to unify the party and steer it toward renewed strength and purpose, with a clear vision of leading Zambians toward a better future,” he concluded.