Paramount Chief Mpezeni, the revered leader of the Ngoni people, has voiced his opinion regarding President Hakainde Hichilema's tenure, stating that Zambians cannot reasonably expect to remove him from office after only five years. Mpezeni argues that no single leader could effectively address all of a nation's challenges within such a limited timeframe. When questioned about the Barotse Royal Establishment's (BRE) decision to maintain neutrality in the upcoming elections, Mpezeni emphasized that the Ngoni people operate according to their own distinct traditions and methods.

In response to Paramount Chief Mpezeni's endorsement of President Hichilema, veteran politician Akashambatwa Mbikusita Lewanika has firmly declined to engage in discussion. Lewanika articulated that, as a matter of principle, he would not comment on the chief's stance, comparing it to discussing a highly respected religious figure like the Pope. He underscored Mpezeni's significant status as 'nkosi yama nkosi' (King of Kings) among his people, explaining that he would not participate in media discussions concerning him, thereby preserving the chief's revered position.