Kunda urges rejection of ‘Wamuyayaya’ amid claims on governance direction

Zambia Wake-up Party president Howard Kunda has called on citizens to reject what he described as efforts to alter the country’s political trajectory, warning against moves that could weaken the multi-party system.

Kunda’s remarks were made in response to what he characterised as a push linked to “Wamuyayaya”, which he associated with attempts to consolidate political power. He urged Zambians to remain vigilant and safeguard the country’s democratic framework.

Speaking in statements carried in public reporting, Kunda said any direction that limits political competition would undermine the principles that underpin Zambia’s governance system. He framed his position as a defence of democratic structures, emphasising the importance of maintaining a political environment where multiple parties can operate freely.

The remarks add to a series of positions taken by opposition figures who have raised concerns over governance direction in recent months. These concerns centre on the balance of power, institutional independence and the broader political environment ahead of the general election.

Kunda’s position specifically referenced fears that changes, whether structural or procedural, could shift the country toward a system dominated by a single political force. He called on citizens to resist such outcomes, describing them as inconsistent with Zambia’s democratic history.

The statement comes at a time when political messaging across parties is intensifying, with both ruling and opposition groups positioning themselves ahead of the August polls. Public statements, rallies and media engagements have increasingly focused on defining the narrative around governance and leadership.

Within the broader political landscape, competing narratives have emerged. The ruling party continues to highlight its policy direction and development programmes, while opposition voices have focused on scrutinising decisions and raising concerns over governance.

Kunda’s remarks align with this pattern, placing emphasis on political accountability and the need for citizens to actively engage in shaping the country’s direction. His call to reject “Wamuyayaya” forms part of a wider effort to mobilise support around governance concerns.

No immediate response from the ruling party was indicated within the reporting, though such statements typically contribute to ongoing exchanges between political actors. These exchanges form a central feature of the pre-election environment, where positions are articulated and contested through public discourse.

The term referenced by Kunda has entered political conversation as a point of interpretation, with different actors assigning varying meanings to it. In his remarks, he framed it within a context of power consolidation, using it as a basis for his warning.

Observers note that political rhetoric often intensifies as elections approach, with parties seeking to define issues in ways that resonate with voters. Statements such as Kunda’s reflect attempts to shape public perception and influence engagement.

As the election period draws closer, similar interventions from political leaders are expected to continue, contributing to a dynamic and contested environment. The focus on governance, institutional balance and political competition is likely to remain central to campaign messaging.

Kunda’s call places responsibility on voters to assess the direction being proposed and to make decisions that align with their understanding of Zambia’s democratic framework.