In a significant political shift highlighting deepening realignments within Zambia’s opposition, New Congress Party (NCP) President Peter Chanda has withdrawn his presidential ambition for 2026 and formally endorsed Patriotic Front (PF) figure Makebi Zulu as the NCP’s preferred presidential candidate.

The announcement, made at a press briefing, comes amid growing fractures within the PF and broader instability across the opposition landscape.

Listening Leadership and Strategic Endorsement

Chanda said his decision was guided by consultation, prayer, and a sober assessment of the political terrain.

Recalling his re-election as NCP President at the party’s General Conference on November 18, 2025, he explained that the party constitution empowers him to appoint a presidential candidate where conditions are not favourable for his own bid—a position unanimously endorsed by delegates.

“The ground is not yet ready for me to stand for the presidency in 2026,” Chanda said, stressing that the move should not be interpreted as retreat but as strategic leadership. He likened his role to a midfielder passing the ball to a teammate better positioned to score, emphasizing collective victory over personal ambition.

Backing Makebi Zulu and Calls for Opposition Unity

Chanda cited Makebi Zulu’s consistency, popularity, and loyalty to the Late President Edgar Chagwa Lungu as central to the endorsement.

He praised Zulu for standing by Lungu during and after his presidency, aligning with the NCP’s view that it remains the political custodian of Lungu’s legacy.

Chanda also lamented what he described as the distortion of Lungu’s legacy and the dismantling of the Tonse Alliance, expressing concern over internal disrespect within the PF.

He confirmed ongoing engagement with PF figures including Miles Sampa, Celestine Mukandila, and Given Lubinda, aimed at restoring cohesion.

Reiterating a call for opposition unity, Chanda said the demand for collaboration is growing nationwide.

The NCP, he added, remains committed to its four pillars of nationhood—peace, unity, stability, and productivity—as Zambia edges closer to the 2026 elections amid fears of fragmentation and vote-splitting.