Makebi Zulu Eyes Presidential Bid — Pledges to Heal, Unite, justice, and Constitutional Order in Zambia
By BARNABAS ZULU
LUSAKA — Prominent constitutional lawyer and former Eastern Province Minister, Hon. Makebi Zulu, has formally announced his intention to challenge President Hakainde Hichilema in the 2026 general elections, promising to lead a transformative movement anchored on justice, unity, reconciliation, and constitutional integrity.
In an exclusive statement to the Daily Nation, Hon. Zulu — a respected legal mind and former Member of Parliament for Malambo — said his decision was driven by a deep desire to restore national harmony and rebuild public confidence in governance.
“As Zambia continues to redefine its future, I am guided by one enduring conviction — the strength of our Republic rests on respect for the Constitution and fidelity to justice,” he said.
A Call for Healing and Renewal
Hon. Zulu pledged to steer Zambia away from a culture of vengeance, retribution, and vindictiveness, which he said had fractured the country’s unity and spirit of togetherness.
“Leadership must first heal and then build,” he said. “It must restore faith in governance, protect citizens’ rights, and create opportunities for every community.”
He emphasized that his vision for Zambia is one of inclusive leadership — where political discourse is grounded in civility, mutual respect, and a shared sense of national purpose.
*Strong Calls for His Candidacy*
Across the country, there has been growing momentum from traditional leaders, the Church, civil society organizations, and youth movements, urging Hon. Zulu to enter the presidential race under the Patriotic Front (PF) banner ahead of the party’s elective general assembly slated for December.
Many view him as a unifying and disciplined leader capable of bridging political divides and restoring trust in public institutions. His supporters describe him as a “new generation leader” — youthful, visionary, and grounded in principles of integrity, accountability, and people-centered development.
*A Record of Service and Integrity*
Reflecting on his public service record, Hon. Zulu said his tenure as Eastern Province Minister and Member of Parliament had strengthened his belief in leadership that serves, listens, and uplifts.
“My duty has always been to safeguard the rule of law, defend institutions, and promote accountable leadership. Our journey as a nation demands sober reflection and responsible voices,” he said.
A loyal ally of the late President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, Hon. Zulu has often been praised for his measured and calm leadership style, earning him the respect of both colleagues and opponents.
Championing Internal Democracy
Hon. Zulu expressed satisfaction with the internal democratic processes within the Patriotic Front, which he described as a model of constitutionalism and maturity in party governance.
“I am happy with the internal democracy in the Patriotic Front as enshrined in our party constitution and Article 60 of the Republican Constitution, which encourages all political parties to embrace internal democracy. This is a true sign of growing democracy within the Mighty Patriotic Front,” Hon. Zulu said.
He added that this commitment to inclusivity and transparency reflects the guidance of the Sixth Republican President, the late Edgar Chagwa Lungu (MHSRIP), who consistently urged PF members to coexist as one family and promote unity of purpose.
“Indeed, we have seen how this spirit of unity has continued to manifest — look at how Independence Day has been celebrated by PF members across all ten provinces. It is a clear signal of solidarity, resilience, and readiness to form the next government in 2026,” Hon. Zulu observed.
A National Conversation on the Future
Hon. Zulu announced that in the coming weeks, he would embark on a nationwide stakeholder engagement tour, meeting citizens, youth, students, faith leaders, and professionals to collectively envision Zambia’s path beyond 2026.
“This conversation is not about partisanship,” he noted. “It is about principles — discipline in public office, equity in economic growth, and unity under the law.”
He appealed to Zambians to engage constructively in shaping a national agenda focused on healing, dignity, and prosperity for all.
“Let this dialogue begin with clarity of purpose, civility in tone, and hope in our collective capacity to build a nation that truly serves its people,” he said.
Positioning for 2026
Hon. Zulu’s announcement positions him among the key contenders for the Patriotic Front presidency, as the former ruling party seeks to redefine its identity and strategy ahead of the 2026 elections. His entry is expected to energize the national political landscape and draw attention from both domestic and international observers keen to see Zambia’s democratic renewal.
This international malukula doesn’t want to bring the body of his master and he’s talking about unity. He’s the one bringing all this confusion. What a joke.
Nachipwalala pa Zed. Everyone ati President. Kaya.
This is a repeat, we have read it before. Is it an act of desperation? Presidential candidate under what party, you guys. There is no PF other than faction under Chabinga. So, all PF aspiring candidates have to negotiate with Chabinga or form a party. It is not even feasible to go for elections of a Presidential candidate of all aspirants under PF which will need an anchor party. Anchor party of KBF, Sean Tembo or whatever, you think these chaps will let go? They want it for themselves, that is why they are hanging on in Tonse Alliance. And for Makebi Zulu, what can one say really with all the drama in the case in Court of late Edgar Lungu. It is a shame.
How can you heal and unite when you have set
a condition for ECL body to be buried in Zambia?
It is Mr Zulu’s constitutional right to aspire for the Presidential office.But I wonder how he would succeed as he has kept himself too busy with the Lungu family and burial dispute with government in courts in South Africa .Will time really allow him? Mr Zulu has shown us that he doesn’t value Zambian tradition, and culture particularly on funeral of President and burial of a President.He may come up with other theories on the Embassy Park, Presidential burial site.If he can’t see the importance of a President officiating at the funeral of a late President and opts to consider feelings which are based on hear say, it means he is not fit for the office.If the Attorney General didn’t listen and understand the demand of the people of Zambia to have the late former head of state buried in Zambia and to take action of sueing the family of late ECL, the late President would have been buried in a foreign country by now.The man is not remorseful to consider aspiring for Presidency when he is part of the blame on delayed burial of late former President.And anyone who feels can vote for him must consider to do mental examinations at the nearest clinic.We can’t make experiments on Presidency.He is not just good for that office.
Not everyone recognises Hakainde as their president, and this is fine according to our laws. So he has no business attending a funeral of someone that never recognised him as president. He should not force himself, that is embarrassing and shameful. Let me respect himself by letting it go. He is not wanted.
“HE THAT DIGS HOLES FOR OTHERS, SHALL HIMSELF BE BURIED IN THEM”. -EDITH NAWAKWI.
VOTE FOR CHANGE IN 2026.
Which constitution says you have a choice to recognise or not? This reasoning, awe sure, you will flop again, this time badly!
It is your constitutional right but at least give us respect, Muti ona Bwanji ise ma Zambian’s such that ali onse aona monga anga ti cheme? Muntu kuuka chambe ati nifuna ku chema ma Zambians sure.
A call for healing and unity from one Mr. Makebi Zulu? Sometimes I wonder what politicians take us Zambians for.
Mr. Makebi Zulu has been an extremely polarising figure over the burial of the late former president, Mr. Lungu. He has torn the country asunder and now claims he has the magic to heal and unite the nation! So the game plan is create a problem and provide the solution.
Anyway it is his constitutional right, but for me I have no time for such characters.
Wrong party and totally disastrous past record. No chance for this one.