CHANDA: “I DIDN’T JOIN UPND ALLIANCE FOR MONEY
Lusaka. — 5 JULY 2026
United Prosperous and Peaceful Zambia – UPPZ President Charles Chanda has dismissed claims that he joined the UPND Alliance for financial gain or political relevance.
Speaking on a syndicated radio programme broadcast on 8 stations nationwide, Chanda said he has personally invested K1 million into the campaign to support President Hakainde Hichilema ahead of next month’s election.
He said UPPZ is funding its own activities, including T-shirts and rallies.
“We have the muscle, we have what it takes,” he said. “The alliance is not funding us.”
Chanda also rejected suggestions that UPPZ is struggling, noting the party has existed for over 10 years and contested about 85 by-elections since the UPND government came into office.
“You can’t be talking about survival for UPPZ. We are there as a party and we have proved to the country that we mean well,” he said.
Although UPPZ will not appear on the presidential ballot this year, Mr. Chanda said he will use his influence to mobilize support for President Hichilema and urged his followers not to vote for former ruling parties.
He further confirmed plans to contest the presidency in the 2031 general elections.