MUSUKUMA QUITS LEADERSHIP MOVEMENT, ENDORSES ADRIAN BANDA
Former Leadership Movement Party parliamentary candidate for Mandevu Ntazana Musukuma Mutungwa has withdrawn from the November 5 parliamentary by-election and defected to the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), endorsing its candidate Adrian Banda.
Mr Mutungwa, who also resigned as the party’s National Mobilisation Chairperson, said his decision was informed by the need to position Mandevu Constituency to benefit from government development programmes and resources.
In a statement announcing his resignation, Mr Mutungwa said the decision followed consultations with his family, community leaders and other stakeholders.
He said although he appreciated the opportunity to serve under Leadership Movement Party president Richard Silumbe, he had concluded that joining the ruling party would provide better opportunities for development in Mandevu.
“Leadership to me has always meant putting the welfare of the people first,” Mr Mutungwa stated.
He said his decision was not motivated by personal interests but by what he believed would accelerate development in the constituency.
“Aligning with the ruling party at this time will better position Mandevu to access resources, programs and infrastructure needed for our people,” he said.
Mr Mutungwa further declared his support for Mr Banda, saying he believed the UPND candidate was better positioned to represent the constituency in Parliament.
He said the decision was also intended to align Mandevu with the government’s Grow Zambia Agenda.
“My decision is not about abandoning the people of Mandevu. It is about ensuring that Mandevu has a strong voice where national decisions are made,” he stated.
Mr Mutungwa commended Mr Silumbe for his leadership and mentorship, describing the Leadership Movement Party as an organisation founded on integrity, service and national development.
He thanked his former supporters for their confidence and urged them to continue supporting his commitment to public service.
“I remain committed to serving the people of Mandevu with integrity, humility and dedication,” he said.