WARNING TO THOSE WITH PRESIDENTIAL AMBITIONS IN UPND: SHELVE YOUR PLANS FOR NOW
By: Political Analyst, Chipata
A political analyst from Chipata has warned individuals within the United Party for National Development (UPND) harbouring presidential ambitions to shelve their plans for now, cautioning them against creating unnecessary divisions within the ruling party
The analyst says it has come to his attention that some individuals are allegedly sponsoring certain media houses and social media bloggers to write articles and publish content positioning them as potential successors to UPND President Hakainde Hichilema.
According to the analyst, such political manoeuvres are premature and could prove politically suicidal, particularly at a time when President Hichilema has only just commenced his second term in office.
“Shelve your ambitions for now. Don’t fall into the trap of Garry,” the analyst warned.
He argued that the UPND should instead concentrate on consolidating the gains made under President Hichilema and delivering on its mandate to the Zambian people rather than engaging in premature succession politics.
The analyst further claimed that President Hichilema’s first term was, in his view, largely a continuation of the legacy and political journey of late UPND founding president Anderson Mazoka, and that the President’s newly secured second term should similarly be allowed to run its course before questions of succession arise.
“The first term of 2021, President HH was serving for late UPND President Anderson Mazoka, and this 2026 term is still serving for Mr Mazoka. So, positioning yourselves now, even before HH starts his term, is suicidal,” he said.
He stressed that there is nothing inherently wrong with UPND members harbouring presidential ambitions, but warned that openly campaigning for succession while President Hichilema is beginning his second term could create unnecessary tension and confusion within the party.
“There is no harm in having presidential ambitions. But doing it openly to cause confusion cannot be tolerated,” he said.
The analyst has therefore urged those behind what he described as premature succession campaigns to stop before their activities trigger divisions that could weaken the party.
He further called on UPND members to give President Hichilema the political space to focus on governing the country and fulfilling the promises made to Zambians.