Zambian opposition leaders have vehemently challenged the government's narrative regarding the severe load shedding experienced across the country, dismissing claims that the energy crisis is solely attributable to a drought that occurred two years ago. Instead, they assert that continued power exports are the primary cause, highlighting a perceived disconnection and disregard for the Zambian populace by the ruling administration.

Brian Mundubile, MP for Mporokoso PF, expressed his astonishment at Vice-President Mutale Nalumango's suggestion that citizens would be so gullible as to believe the drought explanation. Mundubile stated that Zambians are well-informed, aware of the ongoing power exports, and have observed direct improvements in supply when Zesco recently halted the export of up to 400 megawatts. He cited an incident where Namibian officials publicly acknowledged receiving power from Zambia during Zambia's period of load shedding, which was broadcast on live television, further undermining the government's claims.

Mundubile elaborated that the drought was not unprecedented and that the meteorological department had provided forecasts. He argued that even with this foresight, the government continued exporting power, ignoring warnings issued as early as the beginning of 2023 to minimize exports to maintain sufficient water levels for generation. According to Mundubile, the 'irresponsible and reckless' export of power began before the drought, depleting water reserves and exacerbating the situation when the drought eventually hit. He pointed to Zimbabwe, which shares the Kariba Dam, as an example of a country that managed its water allocation more effectively and experienced less severe load shedding, attributing Zambia's predicament squarely to the UPND government's 'appetite to export power.'

Echoing these sentiments, Ackim Njovu, leader of the Opposition Democratic Union (DU), dismissed Energy Minister Peter Chikote's assertion that load shedding had eased to