INTERNAL JEALOUSY BIGGEST THREAT TO PF – MWILA
Aspiring Lusaka Mayor Simon Mulenga Mwila has said the Patriotic Front (PF) risks weakening itself ahead of future elections if internal divisions and jealousy among members are not addressed.
In a statement, Mr. Mwila said the greatest challenge facing the former ruling party was not pressure from rival political parties but resistance emerging from within its own ranks.
He expressed concern that opposition directed at PF lawmaker Brian Mundubile appeared to be coming largely from fellow party members rather than political opponents.
Mr. Mwila argued that political movements should nurture emerging leaders instead of undermining them, adding that what was being seen in the party resembled internal rivalry rather than healthy debate.
He described Mr. Mundubile as a naturally popular figure who connects with ordinary citizens, suggesting that his growing influence may be unsettling some figures within the party.
He further cited recent controversy surrounding the appointment of Tasila Lungu Mwansa, saying misinformation surrounding the matter appeared to originate from platforms aligned with PF members, which he said pointed to deeper internal challenges within the party.
According to Mr. Mwila, internal rivalry had become so entrenched that it was weakening the party’s strongest figures before external political opponents could even mount serious challenges.
He maintained that Mr. Mundubile currently stood out as one of the opposition’s most popular figures and warned that sidelining leaders with public support could undermine the opposition’s competitiveness in the 2026 general elections.
Mr. Mwila cautioned that continued infighting among opposition leaders could result in an easy victory for President Hakainde Hichilema if alternative leadership failed to present a united and credible front.
He further observed that political jealousy often disguises itself in procedure and rhetoric, but noted that voters are capable of seeing through internal conflicts.
He urged PF leadership to confront the issue honestly if the party hoped to remain relevant and rebuild its political strength.
Mr. Mwila said the future of Mr. Mundubile’s political career would ultimately be determined by citizens rather than internal party gatekeepers, adding that history shows genuine political support cannot easily be suppressed.
He urged the party to reflect on whether it wished to foster renewal and growth or risk declining due to internal divisions.