“Brian Hapunda Chose Principle Over Politics” – Mwakalombe
Former Chongwe Member of Parliament and former Copperbelt Minister Japhet Mwakalombe says Brian Hapunda’s decision to support Brian Mundubile’s presidential bid while remaining a Socialist Party parliamentary candidate demonstrates that he has chosen principle over political convenience.
Speaking in an interview, Mwakalombe described Hapunda as a politician whose actions have consistently been guided by service to the people rather than personal ambition.
“His father served in the Patriotic Front and later became a diplomat. That man is a role model, and I am not surprised that the son is following in the same footsteps,” Mwakalombe said.
He recalled that Hapunda was at the centre of the BM8 project, saying they worked closely together before Hapunda eventually joined the Socialist Party.
“He is the man at the centre of the BM8 project. When he realised that things in the Patriotic Front were no longer looking clear, he had to make a choice and join the Socialist Party,” he said.
Mwakalombe said Hapunda’s decision to endorse Brian Mundubile for the presidency while contesting a parliamentary seat on the Socialist Party ticket reflects the growing desire among Zambians to see greater cooperation within the opposition..
“The Zambian people want us in the opposition to work together. Those who don’t want to work with others will remain behind because democracy does not force people. It is about responding to what the people want,” he said.
He added that Hapunda’s upbringing instilled in him the values of humility and selfless leadership.
“Growing up in a home where they are taught to be selfless, he understands that being a politician means being a servant of the people. A servant must obey what the people, who are the employers, are saying. You cannot be an arrogant servant who refuses to listen to the people,” Mwakalombe said.
Hapunda recently announced that he will support Brian Mundubile in the 2026 presidential election while standing as a Socialist Party parliamentary candidate, saying his decision is aimed at contributing to broader opposition cooperation ahead of the August 13 general elections.