Zambian Political Firestorm: Mundubile Vows Change, Predicts 2026 Election Victory

Presidential candidate Brian Mundubile, representing the National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity (NRPUP), has made a series of significant public declarations touching on national respect, development priorities, and political integrity. During a rally held in Chinsali, Muchinga Province, Mundubile, alongside his running mate Makebi Zulu, made a profound statement regarding the late President Edgar Lungu. They announced their mutual agreement to ensure President Lungu is finally laid to rest with the dignity and respect he deserves, a promise contingent on their victory in the upcoming August 13 polls. Mundubile emphasized their belief that the former President has not yet received a proper burial.

In a separate, yet equally crucial address, Mundubile moved to clarify the NRPUP’s stance on regional development, specifically disavowing comments made by Tonse Alliance Finance Chairperson, Mutotwe Kafwaya. Kafwaya had reportedly suggested that Western Province did not require an international airport. Mundubile unequivocally stated that these remarks were personal views and did not reflect the official position of either the NRPUP or the Tonse Alliance. He further confirmed that Mr. Kafwaya had subsequently apologized for his statement and unconditionally withdrawn it.

Issuing a statement from Lusaka, Mundubile extended assurances to the Barotse Royal Establishment (BRE), affirming that no member of the Alliance would campaign on a platform that denies development to any region of Zambia, including Barotseland. He reiterated that Hon. Kafwaya’s comments were personal and expressed gratitude to the BRE for providing the opportunity to clarify the party’s true position on the matter. If elected, Mundubile pledged that his administration would work in close consultation with traditional leadership to deliver development uniformly, consultatively, and inclusively across the country.

Mundubile did not shy away from criticizing past governmental failures, citing several unfulfilled projects in Barotseland, such as the King Lewanika University and a promised stadium, where construction has yet to commence despite land being provided. He also referenced alleged broken promises from before the 2021 general election and a specific statement from January 2024, which he quoted as, “You don’t have a country called Barotseland.” Mundubile labeled this remark as an insult to Zambia's historical foundation and lamented the absence of an apology for such 'careless remarks'. He urged Zambians to view the NRPUP as a distinct political force and to grant the party a chance to restore trust between the public and its leaders.

For Barotseland, Mundubile outlined a comprehensive set of specific policy proposals. These include a commitment to constructing quality roads, particularly the Mongu-Lusaka and Sesheke-Livingstone routes. He also pledged significant investment in cattle farming and the prevention of foot-and-mouth disease, alongside prioritizing local residents for job opportunities. Furthermore, Mundubile promised to enhance veterinary services and increase the number of agricultural extension officers in the region. Education was also a key focus, with commitments to improve educational standards, build more secondary schools, and employ teachers familiar with local culture and language. The upgrading of Kalabo and Mongu airports was another specific pledge. Mundubile concluded by emphasizing the party's intention to share all ideas with the BRE, seeking a common position, and, together with his team, to transform both Barotseland and, by extension, Zambia.