Political Power Play: Citizens First Party Unveils New Leadership Amidst Internal Shake-Up

Citizens First President Harry Kalaba has announced significant leadership appointments, leveraging powers vested in him under Article 53(g) of the party’s constitution. These strategic changes, effective immediately, are poised to bolster the party's operational capabilities and public engagement. The announcement was contained in a media statement and corroborated by reports, indicating a proactive step towards enhancing the party's structure.

Among the key appointments is Hon. Faith Munthali, MP, who has been named the new National Chairperson of the Citizens First. Hon. Munthali, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for Mafinga South, brings valuable legislative experience to this pivotal role. This move underscores the party's commitment to strengthening its core leadership and strategic direction in line with its national agenda.

Further enhancing the party's communication and public relations efforts, Mr. Stanley Mhango has been appointed as Party Spokesperson and Central Committee Member responsible for Information, Media and Publicity. Mr. Mhango, formerly the Chairperson of the Teaching Service Commission, is expected to streamline the party's communication machinery and ensure effective dissemination of its policies and programmes.

In a significant addition to the party's top echelons, Ambassador Mary Zambezi has been appointed as Vice President in charge of politics. This appointment, made directly by Mr. Kalaba, highlights a focus on political strategy and coordination at the highest level, bringing a wealth of diplomatic experience to the party's political initiatives and strengthening its overall political outreach.

Mr. Kalaba emphasized that these appointments are specifically designed to strengthen the Citizens First party’s leadership, political coordination, organizational structures, and communication machinery. He articulated a clear vision that these changes will ensure the coherent, timely, and effective implementation and communication of the party’s policies, programmes, and national agenda to the citizens of Zambia.

Calling for unity and cooperation, Mr. Kalaba urged all party structures, members, and officials to provide the newly appointed leaders with the necessary support and collaboration. He underscored the expectation that these leaders would discharge their responsibilities diligently in the service of both the party and the Zambian populace. The official statement regarding these appointments was issued by CF Presidential Media Coordinator Bangwe Naviley Chisenga, with the effective date being October 04, 2026.