Kalaba re-elected Citizens First president, vows to rid Zambia of ‘repressive, divisive govt’

The Citizens First (CF) party has re-elected Harry Kalaba as its president and adopted him as its candidate for the 2026 general elections.

Kalaba, who went unopposed, was endorsed by delegates at a party conference held at Sami Catering and Hire in Lusaka’s Lilayi area on Saturday.

In his acceptance speech, Kalaba pledged to intensify efforts to hold the government accountable and secure victory in the upcoming elections.

“Dear delegates, friends, and partners, I accept your election as President of Citizens First and commit to steering the party to greater engagement and mobilization. We will work with progressive partners to rid the nation of this repressive and divisive government,” he declared.

Kalaba emphasized the need for a pro-poor government that reflects the aspirations of ordinary Zambians.

He accused the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) of failing to address widespread hardship and perpetuating corruption.

“The Vice President recently acknowledged rising HIV/AIDS cases among the youth but failed to link this to the untold poverty and hunger her government has inflicted on citizens,” Kalaba said.

He further criticized the government for its delayed procurement of essential medicines, which he claimed had exacerbated health crises.

Kalaba alleged that under the UPND, corruption had reached unprecedented levels, citing cases of mismanagement, abuse of resources, and unethical procurement practices.

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He accused the government of fostering a hostile investment environment, resulting in a negative outflow of foreign direct investment (FDI).

“For the first time in Zambia’s history, FDI outflows have exceeded inflows, all under a government mired in corruption and self-interest,” he stated.

Calling for unity and action within his party, Kalaba urged CF members to accelerate grassroots mobilization and encourage voter registration.

He warned of potential attempts by the government to disenfranchise citizens through logistical shortcomings during the electoral process.

“We must prepare now. Encourage your friends and families to register as voters. Together, we will bring change in 2026,” Kalaba said.

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