Former Vice President Nevers Mumba has called on Zambians to reject any attempt by the Patriotic Front to return to power, urging voters to rally behind President Hakainde Hichilema ahead of the August 13, 2026 general election.
Dr. Mumba delivered the message in Lusaka on Sunday during the filing of nominations for President Hichilema as the presidential candidate of the United Party for National Development. He framed the election as a critical moment for the country, calling for what he described as careful and deliberate decision-making by voters.
He warned that returning the Patriotic Front to government would carry risks for the country’s future, stating that the former ruling party lacked a clear and credible agenda for national development. Dr. Mumba said Zambia should not “gamble” with its trajectory, urging citizens to assess leadership choices with seriousness.
Dr. Mumba argued that the Patriotic Front’s previous time in office had left the country in a weakened position, citing concerns around the state of the economy and governance structures. He said these factors should guide voters as they approach the upcoming polls, adding that leadership decisions must be grounded in an assessment of past performance and future direction.
His remarks come at a point when political mobilisation is intensifying, with parties positioning themselves ahead of the election. The filing of nominations for President Hichilema marked a key milestone in that process, drawing participation from party members and supporters.
Dr. Mumba used the occasion to emphasise the need to protect what he described as progress made under the current administration. He said Zambia has experienced a period of stability and renewed confidence under President Hichilema’s leadership, both within the country and in its engagement with the international community.
He pointed to what he described as growing recognition from global partners, attributing this to leadership style and policy direction. According to Dr. Mumba, the country’s standing has improved as a result of reforms introduced by the current administration.
Dr. Mumba said he was proud of the direction Zambia has taken, describing the leadership under President Hichilema as focused on national renewal. He said the administration’s approach has set the country on a path toward recovery, with signs that economic conditions are improving.
He added that the impact of policies being implemented is beginning to be felt at the level of ordinary citizens, stating that livelihoods are gradually improving. He linked this to broader efforts to stabilise the economy and strengthen governance systems.
The former Vice President’s remarks place him among political figures actively supporting President Hichilema’s bid for re-election. His call for a renewed mandate reflects a wider campaign message centred on continuity, stability and consolidation of gains.
Dr. Mumba urged what he described as progressive and well-meaning citizens to participate in the electoral process by turning out in large numbers on August 13. He said voter participation would be critical in determining the country’s direction.
He framed the election as an opportunity to reinforce peace, unity and democratic stability, attributes he said Zambia continues to experience under the current leadership. His remarks emphasised the importance of maintaining these conditions as the country moves forward.
The reference to unity and stability aligns with broader messaging from the ruling party, which has highlighted governance continuity as a central theme in its campaign positioning. Supporters of the administration have pointed to policy reforms and institutional engagement as indicators of progress.
Dr. Mumba’s intervention also reflects the role of senior political figures in shaping electoral discourse. His remarks add to ongoing exchanges between political actors, as narratives around governance, performance and future direction continue to evolve.
The Patriotic Front, which governed Zambia prior to the current administration, remains a key player in the political landscape, with its own messaging around reorganisation and future plans. Dr. Mumba’s statement directly challenges that positioning, presenting a contrasting view of the party’s readiness to return to office.
As the campaign period advances, such contrasting positions are expected to feature prominently, with parties and their supporters articulating competing visions for the country. Public engagements, including nomination events, are likely to continue serving as platforms for these messages.
Dr. Mumba’s remarks underline the stakes attached to the upcoming election, with emphasis placed on both past experience and future expectations. His call for voters to act with caution reflects a broader effort to influence how the electorate evaluates competing options.
The August 13 general election is expected to draw participation from multiple political actors, with campaign activity set to intensify across provinces. Issues relating to governance, economic performance and national direction are likely to remain central themes.
Dr. Mumba’s message, delivered at a key campaign moment, positions the election as a decision point for maintaining what he described as progress achieved under the current administration. His call for support for President Hichilema adds to the narrative shaping the run-up to the polls.
How about campaigning for yourself? What kind of politricks is this? Niyamabribes? I ve never heard of Trump or Macron or the British Starmer being praised by the opposition. Why are you opposition if you agree with the rulers?
No wonder this one wife is being hammered by a well known upnd cadre commanda
No one ever think of banging your bcuz he looks like a vehicle.
This chap Mumba plus others always thinking of their pockets and not the future of Zambia
PF, the know daylight criminals.
Ine nalemona kwati Nevers alifwa. Kanshi epo aba uyu mukukulu?
Survival tactics. Ni pa Zed
Pf wad just a criminal grouping.Only someone who suffers from a mental problem and ignorance would wish them back.These were criminals period