By Ollus Ndomu
Amid a tense showdown, the Patriotic Front (PF) led by former President Edgar Lungu persists in its battle against the faction led by Miles Sampa, despite the latter enjoying recognition in Parliament and the Registrar of Societies.
Last evening, Saturday, December 16, 2023, the Central Committee Meeting, chaired by Party President Lungu, unfolded a series of strategic moves aimed at fortifying the party’s position amid escalating legal and political challenges.
Among the resolutions, the party addressed the upcoming ward by-elections in Mayembe Ward (Shiwang’andu), Kapamba Ward (Mpika), and Kayo Ward (Mwansabombwe) districts.
The Central Committee called on members to rally behind party candidates during the nomination process scheduled for Tuesday, 19th December 2023.
A significant focus of the meeting was an update on legal cases currently in the courts of law as the party aims to safeguard its legal ownership against what they term as state-sponsored interference.
Lungu emphasized the need for unity and loyalty among party members, characterizing the challenges faced as a state-sponsored attempt to undermine the PF leadership.
The former President lamented the misuse of state and democratic institutions to support what he deemed as illegal agendas, urging the Central Committee to stand firm against these alleged machinations.
During his opening remarks, Lungu also addressed economic concerns, pointing out the high cost of living affecting citizens.
He criticized what he perceived as a lack of government strategic policies to address soaring prices of essentials like mealie-meal, fuel, and electricity, along with volatility in the foreign exchange market.
Despite these challenges, Lungu encouraged the party to continue advocating alternative policies and reminded Zambians of the party’s achievements during its time in office.
The Central Committee’s decisions signal a determined stance against what they perceive as external interference and a call for party members to rally against what they term a state-sponsored challenge to the democratic nature of Zambia.
