GEORGE MTONGA IS PART OF 2031 CARTEL POSITIONING TO TAKEOVER UPND LEADERSHIP, SAYS MARK SIMUUWE.
UPND Media Director Mark Simuuwe has accused George N. Mtonga of being part of a “2031 cartel” that is positioning itself to take over the United Party for National Development (UPND).
Mr. Simuuwe made the accusation in a statement issued through the party’s communication department.
He said some people have formed groups aimed at influencing the party’s leadership ahead of the 2031 elections.
Mr. Simuuwe said these people are also using social media to make statements that undermine the UPND and Government.
“It has come to the attention of the party communication department that there are some people creating 2031 cartels and issuing statements that undermine the party and government efforts on social media,” he said.
Mr. Simuuwe warned that the UPND would not allow what he called “2031 cartels” within the party.
He said those who have leadership ambitions should wait for their time and allow the party’s National Management Committee (NMC) to decide who should lead the party in the future.
“Take notice that 2031 cartels will not be tolerated in the party. If you have ambitions, wait for your time and, if you are UPND, let the party’s highest governing organ, the National Management Committee (NMC), decide for you and guide,” he said.
Mr. Simuuwe also claimed that Mr. Mtonga had resigned from the UPND in 2025 but later returned to the party without following the proper procedure.
He said some people who resigned from the UPND in 2025 accused the party and Government of reducing democracy.
“Some people resigned from the UPND in 2025, citing shrinking democracy in UPND and Zambia. Those persons have never publicly rejoined UPND. Today, they are being exposed undermining government policies and calling UPND officials names,” he said.
Mr. Simuuwe accused the individuals of now coming back to criticise Government policies and attack UPND officials.
The allegations come at a time when there is growing debate within the UPND over party policies, internal leadership and possible contenders for the 2031 elections.
Mr. Mtonga had not publicly responded to the allegations at the time of publication.
-Zambian Watch.