Political Earthquake: Key Allies Abandon Kalaba for Tonse Alliance in Shocking Defections

The Citizens First (CF) party in Zambia is experiencing significant political changes as it gears up for the 2026 general elections. On July 10, 2026, President Harry Kalaba announced the departure of his running mate, Hon. Moses Mawere, and Roan aspiring candidate, Hon. Chishimba Kambwili, who have opted to join colleagues in the Tonse Alliance (also referred to as Tonse-Pamodzi Alliance). In addition, Kafue West Aspirant and national youth leader, Max Chongu, has also joined the Tonse-Pamodzi Alliance. Hon. Moses Mawere, who also serves as the President of the Exodus Party for Peace and Prosperity (EPPP), had successfully filed presidential nominations with Kalaba, but is now expected to support the presidential candidature of Tonse-Pamodzi Alliance leader, Hon. Brian Mundubile.

President Kalaba addressed these high-profile exits, stating that Citizens First was founded on the principles of democracy, freedom of association, and respect for individual political choices. While acknowledging the party would have preferred to continue their journey together under the Citizens First banner, Kalaba expressed respect for their decision, wishing them well in their future political endeavors and thanking them for their contributions to the movement. This move underscores the dynamic and sometimes fluid nature of political alliances in Zambia.

Despite these departures, President Kalaba reaffirmed that Citizens First's mission remains firmly unchanged. He reiterated the party's unwavering commitment to building a united, prosperous, and corruption-free Zambia. This vision is founded on core values of integrity, accountability, transparency, non-violence, and servant leadership. Kalaba extended his gratitude to the leadership of the CF Orange Alliance, its members, supporters, and volunteers for their dedication, assuring the people of Zambia that Citizens First remains steadfast in offering principled leadership and practical solutions to the nation's challenges. The party's position on integrity, he stressed, remains clear and uncompromising, emphasizing a foundation of honesty, accountability, and respect for the rule of law.

The situation surrounding Harry Kalaba's running mate is not an isolated incident in Zambian politics. It draws parallels to the recent withdrawal of Andyford Mayele Banda, who stepped down as the vice-presidential running mate for Dr. Brian Mushimba under the Organized People’s Party (OPP). Banda's decision was attributed to "multiple breaches of agreement" by the party president, rendering the partnership unworkable and framing the exit as a matter of principle. Such shifts have fueled speculation on the state of opposition alliances in Zambia ahead of crucial elections.

Given that a presidential candidate's ticket is constitutionally tied to their running mate, the legal implications of such withdrawals or endorsements of other presidential candidates remain a complex issue. The constitutionality of these actions has yet to be determined by the courts of law, adding another layer of uncertainty to the electoral landscape. Kalaba concluded his statement with a blessing for Citizens First and the Republic of Zambia, reinforcing the party's resolve to work tirelessly for a better nation for all.