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The Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD) has officially joined the TONSE Alliance, calling for a unified opposition to challenge the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) ahead of the 2026 general elections.
FDD Vice President, Chifumu Banda, representing party President, Edith Nawakwi, announced the decision at a media briefing held on Saturday at Crest Lodge in Lusaka’s Ibex Area.
Banda emphasized the importance of unity within the Alliance, urging members not to underestimate the strength of the ruling party and to focus on a common purpose.
“As the Alliance prepares for 2026, it’s crucial to acknowledge the strength of the opponent and foster unity of purpose and direction,” Banda stated.
He highlighted the significant strides made since the November 2024 launch of the Alliance, which included the selection of Edgar Lungu as its presidential candidate.
Banda described FDD’s inclusion as a “valuable addition,” citing the party’s history of having served in government and its potential to strengthen the Alliance’s political influence.
In welcoming FDD, Patriotic Front (PF) Vice President, Given Lubinda accused President Hakainde Hichilema and the UPND of being more focused on holding power than addressing the needs of Zambians.
“They believe they have ‘arrived’ simply because they are in power, leaving the rest of us to watch as they harm our nation,” Lubinda alleged, calling for greater unity among opposition parties.
Lubinda further emphasized that the Alliance’s mission is not to dismantle individual parties but to unite those committed to Zambia’s progress.
“Let 2025 be a year of building partnerships for meaningful change,” Lubinda urged.
At a separate briefing later in the day, Edgar Lungu, the 2026 presidential candidate for the TONSE Alliance, echoed the call for intensified efforts in the lead-up to the elections.
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Lungu stressed that 2025 would be a critical year for political strategies and unity.
“The formal welcome of FDD as a member of the TONSE Alliance marks a crucial moment in Zambia’s political landscape,” Lungu said.
“They are not coming as visitors or tourists, but as a full-fledged member.”
Lungu underscored the importance of collective action, stating, “Whether you like it or not, 2026 we are voting, so it’s either you are with us or against us. 2025 is not for sitting on the fence, but time to work.”
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