By George Sichula
TEN POLITICAL STEPS TO RESTORE UPND ON THE COPPERBELT
The Copperbelt can be restored as a strong UPND base, but this requires deliberate political renewal, economic confidence and sustained grassroots engagement, not rallies alone.
1. RENEW POLITICAL AND GOVERNMENT LEADERSHIP
Assess both party and government leadership. Where necessary, introduce fresh, energetic and politically connected leaders who understand Copperbelt dynamics and can rebuild public confidence.
2. ENGAGE GRASSROOTS EXPERTS
Bring experienced organisers and community influencers on board to initiate social interactions, listen to communities and rebuild relationships at branch, ward and constituency levels.
3. RESTORE RELATIONS WITH THE CHURCH
Re-engage clergy across denominations. The Church remains highly influential and should be treated as an important partner in dialogue, development and national unity.
4. OPEN UPND DOORS
The party must become more inclusive. Welcome new members, former opponents, professionals and community leaders without making them feel like outsiders.
5. HANDLE THE MINES CAUTIOUSLY
Mining decisions directly affect thousands of families. KCM, Mopani, contractors, suppliers, unions and small-scale miners require careful consultation and consistent engagement.
6. RECONNECT WITH THE YOUTH
Young people still need more jobs, skills, business opportunities and genuine participation in political leadership. Give them reasons to believe they have a future within the system.
7. ENGAGE TRADERS AND BUSINESSES
Strengthen relationships with marketeers, contractors, suppliers, transporters, entrepreneurs and SMEs whose economic experiences influence political opinion.
8. STRENGTHEN GRASSROOTS STRUCTURES
Branches, wards and constituencies must operate continuously, not only during elections. Equip local leaders to organise, communicate and resolve community concerns.
9. CREATE A LISTENING SYSTEM
Establish regular community engagements that allow government and party leaders to hear grievances early and respond before dissatisfaction grows.
10. BUILD A BROADER COALITION
Reconnect with former opponents, churches, professionals, miners, women, youths and community leaders.
The Copperbelt will be restored when people feel heard, honored, included and economically hopeful. The strategy must move from temporary mobilisation to permanent grassroots presence.
Copperbeilt is useless,PF criminals closed companies but when upnd government came into power opened all those companies which where closed by PF criminals unfortunately the day of voting those foooooooools decided to vote for mundubile therefore I would ask upnd government to ignore them.