MARK SIMUUWE SAYS TONSE ALLIANCE’S ELECTION ALLEGATIONS EXPOSE GROWING DESPERATION AHEAD OF THE ELECTIONS
LUSAKA, ZAMBIA | AUGUST 4, 2026 – The United Party for National Development (UPND) has noted with concern the latest allegations by the Tonse Alliance claiming that foreign nationals from neighbouring countries will be brought into Zambia to influence the outcome of the forthcoming general election.
These allegations are not only irresponsible but also expose the opposition’s growing desperation as the country heads towards polling day.
What Tonse Alliance is doing is merely projecting onto others what they themselves have been accused of in the past. They appear to believe that everyone conducts politics in the manner they did. The Zambian people have not forgotten the allegations and controversies surrounding the 2021 elections, yet despite whatever strategies were employed at the time, the UPND secured a decisive and overwhelming victory because the people demanded change.
Today, the UPND does not require any external assistance to win the election. Our confidence comes from the trust and support of millions of Zambians whose lives have been positively impacted by the reforms and policies implemented under President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration.
Across the country, citizens have already made up their minds to support continuity because they have witnessed progress in economic recovery, expanded social programmes, infrastructure development, agricultural support, and improved governance.
Rather than manufacturing conspiracy theories, Tonse Alliance should explain to Zambians why they deserve another opportunity to govern. Elections are won through credible ideas, practical solutions and the confidence of the electorate, not through fear, misinformation and inflammatory rhetoric.
We have also noted public claims circulating online regarding the nationality and identity of some individuals making these allegations. Such matters are serious and should not be determined through speculation. We have credible information suggesting possible breaches of Zambia’s immigration or nationality laws, the relevant competent authorities should be allowed to investigate and establish the facts in accordance with the law. The UPND believes that all persons residing in Zambia must comply with the country’s laws regardless of their political affiliation.
We caution political leaders against making reckless statements capable of creating unnecessary tension or undermining public confidence in Zambia’s democratic institutions. Those who genuinely love this country should contribute to peace, unity and issue-based campaigns rather than attempting to divide citizens through unsubstantiated claims.
The UPND remains committed to peaceful, democratic and issue-based politics. We will not be distracted by campaigns built on defamation, misinformation and fear. Our focus remains on engaging the people of Zambia on our record in office and our vision for the next five years.
If Tonse Alliance believes it enjoys the confidence of the Zambian people, it should present its manifesto, articulate its policies and allow citizens to make a democratic choice at the ballot box.
The people of Zambia are discerning. They will reject politics of propaganda and embrace leadership that delivers results.
Issued by:
Mark Simuuwe
Media Director
United Party for National Development (UPND)