Movement for Multi-Party Democracy (MMD) President, Dr. Nevers Mumba, has accused opposition leaders of desperation and spreading falsehoods in an attempt to unseat President Hakainde Hichilema in 2026.

Mumba, an ally of the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), reiterated his endorsement of Hichilema for re-election in the 2026 Presidential and General Elections.

Speaking at a press briefing held at the UPND Secretariat in Lusaka on Tuesday, Mumba dismissed claims by some opposition leaders that the government intended to extend the presidential term and remove the 50-plus-one vote threshold from the Constitution.

Mumba, who is entangled in internal MMD leadership disputes, also criticized the previous Patriotic Front (PF) administration, particularly its failed attempt to amend the Constitution through Bill 10.

“I have seen the amendment proposals provided by the UPND government, and I can confidently say that they are all progressive, unlike the failed PF Bill 10, which was rejected by the Zambian people,” he said.

He expressed confidence in the UPND administration, arguing that its proposed constitutional amendments would benefit the country, including the plan to eliminate unnecessary by-elections to save national resources.

Additionally, Mumba urged the Church and Civil Society Organizations to support Hichilema’s re-election bid, saying he had demonstrated visionary leadership by steering Zambia through economic hardships, including the recent drought that led to load-shedding and food shortages.

“President Hichilema must be supported because he has shown true leadership, especially in difficult times when the country faced challenges such as prolonged drought,” Mumba said.

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He emphasized the urgency of constitutional reforms before the 2026 elections and called on Hichilema to expedite the process.

Mumba, who has served in leadership for 28 years, stressed the importance of preparing adequately for elections.

“All politicians must be aware that elections are just around the corner, and we must ensure that the legal framework governing them is strong and progressive,” he said.

He further urged religious and civic leaders to rally behind the President’s call for constitutional amendments ahead of the 2026 elections.

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