A Call for Mutual Respect and Collective Democratic Responsibility- Fred M’membe

A Call for Mutual Respect and Collective Democratic Responsibility

My attention has been drawn to recent statements on Ambassador Emmanuel Mwamba’s podcast from some Tonse Alliance supporters, aligned with my brother Hon. Brian Mundubile, regarding our decision to chart a distinct political path. While we understand the passion and urgency that drive the desire for political alliances in our country, it is critical that we do not let our enthusiasm erode the foundation of mutual respect and democratic choice.

Labelling fellow leaders who choose different strategies as “unpatriotic” or “self-seeking”—and directly targeting  my brothers, Mr. Harry Kalaba of Citizens First and Mr. Kelvin Bwalya Fube of Zambia Must Prosper, alongside myself—grossly mischaracterises our deep, lifelong commitment to the Zambian people. Patriotism can not be monopolised by a single coalition, nor is it measured by one’s presence in a specific alliance.

Our decision as independent leaders to maintain our distinct political vehicles is a considered, strategic choice aimed at robustly defending democracy from different vantage points. Mr. Kalaba, Mr. Fube, and I stand unified in our view that a diverse political ecosystem—where different parties bring unique visions, principles, and solutions to the table—strengthens our national democratic fabric rather than weakening it. Choosing a different path to achieve a better Zambia is not a sign of division or selfishness; it is a vital exercise of our constitutional right to freedom of association and expression.

The real adversary of the Zambian people is not a fellow opposition leader. The enemy is the crushing cost of living, rising unemployment, hunger, and the erosion of our national sovereignty and ending political injustice, repression, and tyranny. We must resist the temptation of internal bickering and character assassination, which only serves to distract us from the urgent task of national redemption.

We extend our fraternal respect to the Tonse Alliance and all other political formations. We urge all political players and their supporters to elevate the standard of our discourse. Let us engage in ideas, policies, and visions for our country rather than personal attacks. The ultimate judges of our patriotism and intentions will be the Zambian people.

Fred M’membe
SP President