BEYOND PARTY LINES: GIVEN LUBINDA’S STATESMANSHIP SPEAKS LOUDER THAN POLITICAL LABELS
By Joe Mwambu | Political Commentary
In politics, party loyalty often overshadows humanity. But a leader’s true character is revealed not by the party colours they wear, but by where they stand when others are in need.
Hon. Given Lubinda demonstrated this when he appeared at the Lusaka High Court to show solidarity with opposition figures Brian Mundubile and Makebi Zulu during their constitutional bail proceedings.
His presence was more than a political gesture. It was a reminder that justice, compassion and human solidarity must transcend party lines.
This was not the first time Lubinda had demonstrated such commitment. When Makebi Zulu and his team were involved in a serious road accident near Mpika while travelling to a late mayor’s funeral, Lubinda stepped forward to offer support. Similarly, when Brian Mundubile was detained at Ibex Hill Police Station, Lubinda was among those who showed solidarity.
These moments point to a consistent principle: political differences should never erase our common humanity. One may disagree with another’s politics without becoming indifferent to their personal welfare or legal predicament.
Some political circles interpreted Lubinda’s period away from the political frontline as a sign of bitterness. But that interpretation risks confusing restraint with resentment.
Experienced leaders understand that not every political disagreement demands a public confrontation. Sometimes, stepping back allows room for reflection, reassessment and maturity. A quieter political presence does not automatically mean surrender, bitterness or withdrawal from public life.
Lubinda’s recent appearance at the High Court suggests that his period away from the spotlight did not necessarily mean abandoning his colleagues or the broader democratic struggle. He did not need a lengthy speech to make his point. His presence spoke for itself.
As a longtime Kabwata Member of Parliament, former Cabinet Minister and seasoned political administrator, Lubinda understands the demands of public leadership. His experience places him in a position to appreciate that political competition must not come at the expense of national unity, justice or human dignity.
At a time when opposition politics is often weakened by factionalism and mistrust, Zambia needs leaders capable of looking beyond party labels and recognising the bigger national picture. Bridge-builders are needed more than ever—not necessarily those who agree on everything, but those who can maintain mutual respect despite their differences.
Lubinda’s gesture offers a simple but important lesson: you can disagree politically without abandoning your humanity.
Political positions change, alliances shift and party fortunes rise and fall. But the values of justice, empathy and human dignity should remain constant.
Ultimately, Given Lubinda’s statesmanship should not be judged merely by the political positions he holds or the alliances he belongs to, but also by how he treats others when they face difficult moments.
In politics, as in life, character is revealed not by the noise one makes, but by the moments when one chooses to stand with others.