President Hakainde Hichilema recently convened a significant meeting with United Party for National Development (UPND) provincial, district, and constituency officials from across Lusaka Province at Mulungushi Conference Centre. During this engagement, President Hichilema underscored the critical role of a clear UPND majority in Parliament and local councils, stating that it would significantly enhance good governance and accelerate national development. He emphasized that every vote cast must contribute to strengthening the UPND at all levels, asserting that harmonized efforts between Members of Parliament, councillors, and the government lead to faster and more effective service delivery.

The President highlighted several achievements of the New Dawn Administration. These include the successful implementation of free education, which has enabled over 2.3 million children to return to school, and the abolition of examination fees. He also noted a substantial redirection of funds, with money previously allocated for luxury ministerial vehicles now bolstering the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), which has seen an increase from K1.6 million to K40 million per constituency. Furthermore, President Hichilema reaffirmed the government's unwavering commitment to the welfare of retirees, confirming that all outstanding payments for those who once faced long waits at the Ministry of Finance have now been settled.

Addressing the economic landscape, President Hichilema proudly announced that Zambia has become the first country since 2020 to successfully complete debt restructuring, thereby creating crucial space for economic growth and investment. Despite facing the worst drought in living memory, the Zambian economy has demonstrated resilience, continuing to grow at an impressive rate of 5.6% per annum, with no recorded deaths from hunger. The Head of State attributed this success to the unwavering support of the Zambian people, reiterating his personal commitment to serving them first.

Regarding infrastructure and food security, President Hichilema assured citizens that his administration is actively addressing power shortages through strategic investments in solar, coal, and hydro projects. These initiatives include the development of 700 megawatts (MW) in Maamba and 100 MW in Chisamba. To further bolster food security, 500,000 hectares of land have been secured for irrigation purposes. The President also reiterated the non-selective nature of the fight against corruption, citing the forfeiture of property linked to former minister Joseph Malanji, including helicopters, which will be re-purposed for humanitarian operations by the Zambia Air Force (ZAF). He issued a stern warning against corruption, particularly targeting those who steal from hospitals or government projects.

Furthermore, President Hichilema urged party members to vehemently reject tribalism and indiscipline, stressing that the UPND is founded on principles of unity and national identity. He declared, “In the UPND, there is only one tribe, Zambian.” He called upon members to maintain discipline, unity, and loyalty to the people they serve, urging them to continue serving with humility and to build a party that transcends individual ambitions, ultimately aiming to deliver a peaceful, united, and prosperous Zambia.

Other UPND officials present at the meeting also shared their perspectives. Secretary General Batuke Imenda called for intensified mobilization and voter registration efforts in preparation for the 2026 general elections, emphasizing that discipline and loyalty are central to the party's strength. National Youth Chairperson Gilbert Liswaniso cautioned members against standing as independent candidates, while National Chairman Collins Maoma reminded officials that CDF-funded projects should prioritize local communities and UPND-aligned entrepreneurs with registered companies. Lusaka Province Chairperson Obvious Mwaliteta reaffirmed the party’s robust presence in the province, noting a reduction in opposition influence and an increase in grassroots mobilization. Provincial Chairlady Angela Choona and Youth Chairperson Anderson Banda also pledged their full support and readiness for 2026, with Lusaka Province Minister Sheal Mulyata commending President Hichilema's leadership for the province's progress.

Following the fruitful and inspiring interaction, Lusaka Province Chairperson Obvious Mwaliteta expressed profound gratitude to President Hichilema for engaging with the party's leadership. Mr. Mwaliteta highlighted that the meeting reinforced the core UPND values of service, unity, humility, and loyalty under the New Dawn administration. He reiterated the President's directive for all appointed officials and elected leaders to remain humble, connected to the grassroots, and never forget the party that entrusted them with their responsibilities. Commending President Hichilema's visionary leadership, Mr. Mwaliteta reaffirmed Lusaka Province's commitment to strengthening grassroots mobilization and ensuring citizens continue to benefit from government policies such as free education, expanded CDF, and improved social services. He confidently declared that Lusaka Province is prepared to deliver not less than 80 percent of the vote for President Hakainde Hichilema and the UPND in the 2026 general elections, affirming a collective resolve for unity, focus, and humility in achieving this goal. The meeting was part of the President's ongoing efforts to enhance internal party unity and ensure alignment between government policies and the UPND’s grassroots agenda.