Zambia’s Patriotic Front (PF) is grappling with deepening internal divisions following the nomination of Brian Mundubile as chairperson of the Tonse Alliance.

The move directly contradicted a circular issued by the faction led by Given Lubinda, which had earlier declared the January 31 elective conference illegal.

Despite the backlash, Mundubile clarified that his nomination should not be interpreted as a resignation from the PF, underscoring the ongoing struggle over authority, legitimacy, and adherence to party rules within the former ruling party.

Representing the Lubinda faction, Mukandila strongly defended the principle of collective responsibility, insisting that Mundubile, as a PF Central Committee member, remains bound by party decisions and structures.

He emphasized that the PF operates strictly within established rules and procedures, rejecting claims of organizational disarray.

Mukandila further stated that all PF representatives within the Tonse Alliance—including Former President Edgar Lungu—were officially seconded by the party’s Central Committee and could be recalled at any time.

While acknowledging internal disagreements, he drew a firm line between division and indiscipline, asserting that the party remains united.

He revealed that disciplinary action would be considered after the Kasama mayoral by-election, with a Tonse Alliance Council of Leaders meeting scheduled for February 5 to deliberate on the matter.

Legal Disputes and Questions of Legitimate Leadership

Adding a legal dimension to the conflict, Kells Kaunda questioned the validity of decisions made by the Lubinda-led faction, arguing that Robert Chabinga remains the lawful holder of the Patriotic Front’s legal instruments.

Kaunda pointed out that this reality is implicitly acknowledged by the Lubinda faction itself, citing its inability to field PF candidates in recent by-elections.

He referenced the Chawama by-election, where Mr. Lubinda reportedly campaigned for a Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD) candidate instead of a PF contender.

Kaunda challenged the legal standing and enforceability of resolutions passed by the Lubinda faction, suggesting they carry little weight given Chabinga’s recognized status.

He described the PF as either “legally non-existent” or trapped in a state of “legal limbo,” casting doubt on whether the courts could resolve the party’s ownership disputes before the August 2026 general elections.

Stressing the urgency of the situation, Kaunda urged party members to focus on political survival and relevance, even if that required abandoning long-standing alliances or aligning more decisively with the Tonse Alliance.

He invoked a Bemba proverb—“Katende mpela ulubilo, uuli namunyina ashale”—to emphasize the need for speed and pragmatism in uncertain times.

Prospects for Alliance Politics Ahead of 2026 Elections

Supporting elements of this perspective, Chris Zumani Zimba, Former Political Adviser to Late President Edgar Lungu, suggested that cooperation between the PF and the Tonse Alliance remains possible ahead of the August 13, 2026 elections.

He noted that such collaboration would depend on both entities successfully selecting their respective presidential candidates.

Importantly, Zimba asserted that acting PF president Given Lubinda lacks the authority to expel Brian Mundubile, the PF member of parliament for Mporokoso.

He reaffirmed that Robert Chabinga is the legitimate party president, further undermining Lubinda’s leadership claims.

Together, these developments highlight the intricate legal battles, leadership struggles, and strategic calculations shaping the PF’s uncertain future as Zambia approaches its next general election.