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Political analyst and academic, James Musonda, has expressed believe that there was a strong chance for the Patriotic Front (PF) to make a comeback in the 2026 elections, though not because the opposition party was superior to the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND).
In a statement seen by Zambia Monitor on Sunday, Musonda argued that the UPND’s failures, arrogance, and inability to take responsibility for its shortcomings were key factors that could help the PF.
He pointed to issues like the rising cost of living and the impact of load shedding on people’s livelihoods as central to the discontent.
While Musonda acknowledged that the UPND had made some progress, particularly in infrastructure, he stressed that they had failed to address what truly matters to the people: the cost of living and the economic importance of reliable electricity.
However, Musonda noted that this opportunity for the PF would not materialize under former President Edgar Lungu’s leadership, as the UPND would likely block any attempt for him to return to power, fearing the political ramifications.
“The UPND is too scared of what Lungu could do if he returns. Before the 2021 elections, he promised to arrest President Hichilema, and he meant it. This fear will prevent them from allowing him near the ballot,” Musonda said.
Musonda suggested that Lungu should endorse a new, clean candidate and avoid re-entering the political fray himself.
He further criticised the UPND’s strategy of destabilising the PF, highlighting the involvement of figures like Robert Chabinga and Miles Sampa, whom he accused of illegally holding conventions, changing party names, and expelling members without proper procedures.
“They knew this was illegal, yet they proceeded, and now the perpetrators are guilty of criminal liability,” Musonda claimed.
He also expressed concern over Chabinga’s disobedience of a restraining order to hold the PF presidency, suggesting that he would require UPND protection.
Musonda also questioned what was discussed between Miles Sampa and the president during their recent meeting in Botswana.
Ultimately, Musonda advised Lungu to abandon his presidential ambitions, as the UPND would likely prevent his candidacy through legal and political means, urging him instead to support a fresh, untainted candidate for the party’s future success.
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