PF Rages: Faction Leaders Vow to Hold Convention Amidst Confusion and Defiance

Published 2 hours ago3 minute read
Pelumi Ilesanmi
Pelumi Ilesanmi
PF Rages: Faction Leaders Vow to Hold Convention Amidst Confusion and Defiance

The Patriotic Front (PF) in Zambia is grappling with significant internal divisions and a pressing need for a credible convention to elect new leadership, a sentiment echoed by prominent figures such as Given Lubinda and Brian Mundubile. Both leaders emphasize that the party's future hinges on its ability to unite and present itself as a viable alternative government amidst growing public dissatisfaction with the current administration.

Given Lubinda, addressing journalists in Livingstone, vehemently asserted that the true ownership of the PF lies not with any certificate, court, or individual like Robert Chabinga, but with its dedicated members and the people who choose their leaders. He firmly stated that his faction would proceed with a convention to elect a leader and central committee members, irrespective of threats or official recognition. Lubinda underscored his belief that the real opposition in Zambia extends beyond political parties to the suffering populace, citing issues like prolonged power outages and unpaid farmers as critical drivers of public discontent. He expressed confidence that the people, rather than the ruling UPND administration's might, represent the most potent opposition force.

Concurring on the urgency of resolving party squabbles, Brian Mundubile highlighted that the prolonged delay of the general conference, initially slated for 2022, has been the primary catalyst for internal tensions and contestation. Speaking on KBN TV, Mundubile stressed that these differences, though normal in politics, must end soon for the PF to solidify its position as the alternative government that Zambian people are seeking to replace the UPND. He insisted that a credible and accountable process for holding the convention is paramount, believing that once a leader is elected, much of the prevailing confusion and tension within the party will dissipate.

Mundubile also expressed profound disappointment with six Members of Parliament who, despite having endorsed him for party president, voted in favor of Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7. He argued that these MPs betrayed the trust of their constituents and the nation by going against the party's guidance and the collective will of the Zambian people. Mundubile recounted efforts, including setting up a 'mini-parliament' at their offices, where MPs had agreed with entities like the Oasis Forum that the process leading to Bill 7 was illegal, illegitimate, and null and void based on a ConCourt judgment. His disappointment remains strong, given the clear defiance of these representatives against the aspirations of the people who sent them to Parliament.

Ultimately, both Lubinda and Mundubile underscore the critical role of the party members and the forthcoming convention in navigating the PF through its current challenges. They collectively envision a united party that genuinely represents the grievances of the Zambian people, positioning itself as the true voice of opposition and the necessary alternative for the nation's future leadership.

Loading...
Loading...
Loading...

You may also like...