The Patriotic Front (PF) continues to be embroiled in significant internal leadership disputes, with various factions presenting differing perspectives on the party's direction and legal standing. Mr. Chabinga, a prominent figure, recently reaffirmed the party's alliance with President Hakainde Hichilema, explicitly stating that Miles Sampa remains expelled from the PF and holds no official position within the party.

During a press briefing in Lusaka, Mr. Chabinga reiterated his unwavering support for President Hichilema's comprehensive development agenda, which has been in motion since 2021. He highlighted several key achievements of the current government, including enhanced access to mining opportunities, substantial growth in the tourism sector, successful debt restructuring efforts, increased allocations for the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), and a significant reduction of inflation from double-digit to single-digit levels. Mr. Chabinga emphasized his pride in being associated with President Hichilema, asserting that the administration has delivered tangible development across Zambia. He also expressed concern over misleading statements and media reports circulating about internal party matters.

Conversely, the PF Pamodzi Alliance, through its spokesperson Ephraim Shakafuswa, issued a statement on March 28, 2026, acknowledging a recent court decision. This ruling confirmed the lawful constitution of the convention that initially brought Miles Sampa into leadership. However, Shakafuswa was quick to clarify that this judicial outcome solely addressed procedural aspects of the convention and did not, in any way, determine the legitimacy or rightful leadership of the party.

Shakafuswa further elaborated that the leadership dispute remains an active legal process before the Court of Appeal, where an injunction filed by Morgan Ng’ona is still in full force. He stressed that until this injunction is officially discharged, Ng’ona continues to legitimately serve as the Secretary General. Describing the High Court judgment and the pending appeal as a “double-edged sword,” Shakafuswa argued that these legal developments underscore the unresolved nature of the leadership conflict rather than providing any definitive closure.

Despite these ongoing legal proceedings and internal squabbles, the PF Pamodzi Alliance affirmed its commitment to not base its political direction solely on court outcomes. Shakafuswa revealed that the alliance is proactively implementing strategic measures in anticipation of the 2026 General Elections. These measures include the deployment of Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs), a strategy previously utilized in areas such as Kawambwa, Chawama, and Petauke, demonstrating their forward-looking approach.

The alliance is determined to move forward decisively, irrespective of prolonged internal disputes or litigation, stressing that the Zambian populace should not be adversely affected by such delays. Shakafuswa concluded by emphasizing that true leadership must prioritize mobilization and present a credible alternative to citizens, rather than passively awaiting the conclusion of court processes. He stated that while the Court of Appeal’s eventual ruling will hold significance, it will not ultimately dictate the alliance’s political trajectory, metaphorically describing it as merely “the icing on a cake already baked.”