Hichilema's Fiery Call: Reject Political Violence in Kaoma Amidst Shadow of Past Tragedies

During a fervent campaign trail leading up to the August 13 General Election, President Hakainde Hichilema addressed thousands of supporters across Kaoma, Nkeyema, and Luampa in Zambia's Western Province, drawing immense crowds and demonstrating widespread adoration in Barotseland. Supporters, from market stalls to village squares, waited for hours under the Western sun, singing, ululating, and waving as his convoy arrived. Elders danced with youth, women lifted their chitenge in celebration, and children chanted his name, all echoing a singular message: "Barotseland loves HH."

The President, in his addresses, frequently reflected on Zambia's tumultuous political past, particularly lamenting the tragic death of United Party for National Development (UPND) member Lawrence Banda in Kaoma. He described Banda's killing as a "painful reminder of the country’s past political tensions," alleging that Banda was killed during the previous administration simply for believing in the UPND’s vision. President Hichilema solemnly stated that Banda’s life had been "cut short by a bullet," and emphasized that those responsible were known. He stressed the imperative need to uphold the rule of law to prevent any recurrence of such incidents.

Hichilema further reminded the people of Kaoma and Barotseland of what he characterized as "crimes committed against citizens’ freedoms of association." He recalled instances where supporters traveling to Lusaka’s Intercity Bus Station were reportedly beaten for their allegiance to the UPND. He poignantly remarked, "For 33 years, Western Province suffered for their party," drawing a collective roar of recognition and agreement from the crowds. This historical suffering was contrasted with the present, urging voters not to "hand our future back to those with that legacy." His warning was implicitly aimed at political rivals such as NRPUP’s Brian Mundubile, his running mate Makebi Zulu, and independent candidates, who, notably, were campaigning in other areas of strong support and had not yet appeared in Barotseland.

Transitioning from the painful recollections of the past, President Hichilema painted a hopeful vision for Zambia's future under the UPND leadership. He assured the throngs of supporters that Barotseland would witness "massive development" if the UPND was re-elected. This promise was met with enthusiastic cheers, more songs, and hands lifted high. He reiterated his government's commitment to delivering development to every corner of the country. Beyond regional development, the President outlined a broader national agenda, asserting that Zambia is now "in a better place as a nation." He highlighted key pillars of his administration's vision, including driving economic progress, ensuring free education for children, and empowering communities through an enhanced Constituency Development Fund, which stands at K40 million per constituency.

President Hichilema passionately urged the people of Kaoma and the entire Western Province to support his re-election bid and vote for UPND candidates in the forthcoming general election. He framed the choice on August 13 as a clear one: whether to "return to those dark days" of political violence and suppression, or to "protect the peace we now enjoy" and continue on a path of national development and progress. He concluded his powerful addresses by reaffirming Zambia’s national motto, “One Zambia, One Nation,” and offered prayers for God’s continued blessings upon the country, reinforcing a message of unity and forward momentum.