The proposal to resolve the Patriotic Front leadership dispute through a closed-door conclave continues to attract scrutiny, with objections focusing on constitutional compliance, transparency, and the role of party members in selecting their leaders.

The discussion has intensified following internal developments within the opposition party, including the withdrawal of Brian Mundubile from the elders-led conclave process and renewed calls for the leadership contest to be resolved through a national convention.

The conclave initiative was introduced by senior party figures and elders as a mechanism intended to reduce tensions among rival presidential contenders ahead of the 2026 general elections. Supporters of the approach have described it as a practical means of restoring unity within the party.

Political analyst Dr Mwelwa has outlined a structured assessment of the approach, focusing on its compatibility with democratic norms within political parties. He notes that conclaves originate from religious institutions, where participants are bound by vows and doctrine, rather than from political systems governed by constitutions and competitive leadership contests.

Dr Mwelwa argues that political parties derive authority from clearly defined constitutional rules and the expressed will of their members. In his view, leadership outcomes negotiated among aspirants weaken internal accountability and reduce confidence in the process.

Another concern relates to the involvement of presidential contenders in shaping the leadership selection process. Dr Mwelwa maintains that individuals seeking office should not influence the mechanism that determines the outcome, as this creates conflicts between ambition and impartiality.

The Patriotic Front constitution provides for leadership selection through a national convention and an electoral process involving accredited delegates. Dr Mwelwa argues that bypassing these provisions risks undermining the legitimacy of any outcome, regardless of the intention behind alternative arrangements.

Objections have also focused on the restricted nature of the conclave discussions. Dr Mwelwa states that processes conducted without broad participation limit transparency and reduce opportunities for accountability. Leadership arrangements reached in such settings often struggle to command acceptance across the wider membership.

Concerns have also been expressed about the potential for strategic alignments within closed negotiations. Dr Mwelwa notes that private bargaining allows candidates to form alliances based on personal calculations rather than demonstrated support among delegates, which may disadvantage contenders with strong grassroots backing.

The expectation that aspirants will voluntarily step aside in the interest of unity has also been questioned. Dr Mwelwa points to the competitive character of party politics and previous internal disputes within the Patriotic Front, arguing that goodwill alone is an unreliable basis for leadership transitions.

Unity remains a central objective cited by advocates of the conclave approach. Dr Mwelwa distinguishes between unity achieved through negotiated agreement among elites and unity produced through a vote by members. He argues that unity emerging from an open electoral process carries greater durability, as it reflects collective choice.

Symbolic elements associated with conclaves have featured in public commentary. Dr Mwelwa rejects the view that symbolism can replace constitutional legitimacy, stating that leadership authority within a political party must be derived from ballots cast by authorised delegates.

Ownership of the party has also featured prominently in the discussion. Dr Mwelwa maintains that the Patriotic Front belongs to its members and that leadership decisions must be made through structures that allow those members, directly or through delegates, to determine outcomes.

He has called on PF leadership figures, including Miles Sampa, to abandon the conclave proposal and proceed to a national convention. He says a timely, constitution-based conference would provide clarity and reduce internal tension ahead of the 2026 general elections.

The manner in which the Patriotic Front resolves its leadership transition is expected to influence both internal cohesion and public confidence in the party as it prepares for the next electoral cycle.

The Chalimbana University Student Union has pledged its full support to President Hakainde Hichilema’s leadership.

The media reports that speaking in Chongwe today, Union President Enos Kaoma said the Union is pleased with the government ’s decision to construct modern classrooms and upstairs hostels among others for students at Chalimbana University.

Mr Kaoma said once completed the new infrastructure will help in addressing accommodation challenges for students.

He commended President Hichilema for initiating the construction of modern classrooms, staff houses, library and upstairs hostels.

Mr Kaoma stressed that the Union together with the students are happy with the coming of the state of the art infrastructure.

He said the Union has over one thousand reasons to support President Hichilema because he has stood by their side.

Mr Kaoma stressed that President Hichilema has been there for the students as evidenced from the infrastructure being put up at the University.

He recalled that in the past students used to face challenges with accommodation but that President Hichilema has resolved the matter.

Mr Kaoma pledged on behalf of the students to render full support to the Head of State.

And speaking earlier, during the launch of the Chalimbana University 2025-2026 Strategic Plan, Minister of Education Douglas Syakalima disclosed that the government is investing significantly in infrastructure development at Chalimbana University.

Mr Syakalima cited the construction of student hostels, staff housing, lecture theatres, classrooms, and a library as some of the infrastructure where the government has injected colossal amounts of money.

He explained that the investment in infrastructure development is meant to create a conducive environment for learning, research, and staff welfare.

The Minister expressed optimism that with the coming up of new infrastructure coupled with the use of technology, the University will be well-positioned as a competitive, modern, and globally recognised institution.

Mr Syakalima challenged Chalimbana University to ensure that the impact of the 2025-2026 strategic plan is visible.

He said the Chalimbana University Strategic Plan (2025–2029) represents a new chapter of purpose, ambition, and national relevance.

He urged the council, management, and faculty to ensure that the strategic plan is fully implemented.

Mr Syakalima said the strategic plan must be treated as a living framework, guiding action, transformation, and accountability.

And speaking earlier at the same event, Chalimbana University Vice Chancellor William Phiri informed the Minister that the strategic plan repositions the University as a leader in education, research, and innovation.

Ballot papers for the Chawama parliamentary by-election have arrived in the country ahead of the polls scheduled for January 15, 2026.

The Emirates Plane carrying the consignment landed at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport this afternoon.

The arrival of the ballot papers signals the transition from the preparatory phase to the final stages of the electoral process, ensuring that all logistical requirements for voting day are firmly in place.

With the ballot papers now in the country, electoral authorities are expected to proceed with verification, storage, and distribution to polling stations in accordance with electoral guidelines.

The Chawama Parliamentary seat fell vacant after a prolonged absence by the then Member of Parliament Tasila Lungu.

This prompted the Speaker of the National Assembly Nelly Mutti to declare the seat vacant in November 2025.