MARK SIMUUWE DEFENDS UPND’S TRACK RECORD OF CONSISTENT GENERAL ASSEMBLIES
…Sets April 15, 2026 for Next Convention
UPND Media Director Mark Simuuwe says the United Party for National Development (UPND) remains the only political party in Zambia with a consistent record of successfully holding its General Assembly (Convention) since its founding.
Speaking during a programme on Diamond TV, Mr Simuuwe said the party has upheld its constitutional requirements from the time it was established by founding president Anderson Kambela Mazoka.
He noted that even after Mr Mazoka’s death, the party conducted a successful General Assembly, where leadership contests were held in line with the party constitution, including participation by contenders such as Sakwiba Sikota.
Mr Simuuwe explained that the UPND constitution, similar to the republican constitution prior to the 2016 amendments, provides for the holding of the General Assembly every five years without specifying a fixed date, but ensures continuity in leadership without creating a vacuum.
He said when the tenure of office bearers expires, the party’s National Management Committee is mandated to set the date for the General Assembly, while office bearers remain in position until new leaders are elected.
“The constitution does not provide for a vacuum before new office bearers are elected. Positions only become vacant when nominations open ahead of elections at the General Assembly,” Mr Simuuwe said.
He added that the dissolution of party structures is conducted by the presiding officer shortly before elections, within a period of between 14 and 30 days prior to the General Assembly.
Mr Simuuwe confirmed that all current office bearers remain valid and that guidelines have already been issued for the next General Assembly scheduled for April 15, 2026.
He further clarified that the General Assembly is not tied to the August 2026 General Elections, stating that it could even be held after the August 13 polls if necessary.
On legal matters, Mr Simuuwe said the party has not been served with any court documents regarding the holding of the General Assembly.
He also disclosed that the party has reported to the police an individual who claimed on social media to have assumed the UPND presidency, citing impersonation.
© UPND Media Team