By Kapya Kaoma

If one sift through police dockets, it’s hard to understand why Mrs. Mumbi Phiri remains a free woman. The former Deputy General Secretary of the Patriotic Front (PF) has faced numerous high-profile arrests, including charges of aggravated robbery and even murder. Yet, her political journey is remarkable, marked by a resilience that challenges perceptions.

As Zambian history unfolds in its post-one-party state era, names like Chishimba Kambwili, GBM, and Edith Nawakwi may fade, but Mumbi Phiri’s legacy is set to endure. Like an African lioness, Phiri fiercely defends her territory—even at personal cost. In a nation grappling with complex socio-economic issues, she is a living example of courageous leadership: an advocate for the marginalized, a voice of reason amid chaos, and someone who speaks the truth to power, undeterred by intimidation.

Mumbi Phiri’s ascent in Zambian politics has been unconventional. However, her journey has not been without obstacles, even within her own party. At one point, she endured the disappointment of being overlooked as a parliamentary candidate. In a male-dominated political field entrenched in gender biases, she has managed to find her voice, confronting challenges head-on and inspiring young women to engage in politics.

Her candid demeanor and passionate rhetoric have unsettled rivals, but her true strength lies in her genuine connection with the hopes and struggles of ordinary Zambians. She shows that fear and politics should not intertwine; tor her: if you can’t stand the heat, step aside. While many male politicians have faltered under the pressure of the Hakainde Hichilema administration, Mumbi Phiri remains steadfast, persistently challenging the UPND leadership even as she faces her own legal trials.

Most would expect arrests to silence dissent, but for Mumbi Phiri, each detention appears to ignite her political defiance against what she perceives as Hichilema’s arrogance and abuse of power. Her Bemba spirit radiates compassion, even in challenging circumstances—an essential aspect of her character.

Confronted with the harsh realities facing the masses—poverty, high unemployment, inadequate healthcare, and income disparities—madam Mumbi has crafted a narrative that appeals to everyday people. She serves as a maternal figure of hope, offering a smile amid adversity. While Vice President Mutale Nalumango may represent women’s voices, Mumbi Phiri arguably fulfills that role as the mother to impoverished women across Zambia.

To a degree, Mumbi Phiri has revitalized the PF. While many lost faith in the party after it lost power and in the aftermath of Hichilema’s crackdown on its leadership, she remained steadfast, like a sunflower standing tall in the sweltering heat of political adversity. Her approach to opposition politics blends sharp critique with grassroots engagement; she has been relentless in supporting fellow party members facing harassment.

Mumbi Phiri’s authenticity has fostered trust—a valuable commodity in a party often divided. She speaks openly about the need for reforms targeting social justice and economic empowerment, advocating for solutions that address immediate concerns and lay the groundwork for sustainable development should PF regain power. Her critique of the UPND administration is simple: it has failed the Zambian people.

Importantly, her influence extends beyond the PF. In a nation where women’s voices are often marginalized, she powerfully demonstrates the vital role women play in national progress. She shows that while police cells, courtrooms, and prisons can crush one’s spirit, they can also galvanize the fight for justice.

As Zambia prepares for its next general election, Mumbi Phiri represents more than political ambition—she is a blend of strength, hope, and compassion. Her life story should inspire young women to stand up against injustice in any form. Indeed, the transformative power of politics arises from challenges, and her life stands as a testament to strength, hope, and courage.

Regardless of one’s opinion Hon. Mumbi, there is no denying of her determination and resilience. She is not just a name; she is a force—a catalyst for change. She is an example of what it means to lead with integrity in service to the people.

By Kapya Kaoma

This question is on the minds of many Zambians, yet the answer remains elusive. Zambian political history suggests a grim fate for any party that loses power: it risks extinction. This history has emboldened UPND political commentators and insiders alike, using it as ammunition in their organizational strategy: “The PF will never reclaim power; history proves it!” Yet, the PF may stand a stronger chance of unseating the UPND in the upcoming 2026 elections than many are willing to acknowledge.

Dismissing this possibility ignores one key factor. It’s uncertain whether Zambian politics will continue to support an ever-growing number of political parties. What is certain, however, is that the UPND won’t vanish even if President Hakainde Hichilema loses in 2026. Should that happen, he would undoubtedly seek to run again in 2031 on the UPND ticket, as long as Southern Province—and its ethnic dominance—exists. Like many political movements worldwide, the party’s strength is rooted in its ethnic identity, allowing it to remain a formidable presence without the need for widespread organization elsewhere in the nation.

In contrast, the PF lacks a defined tribal or ethnic stronghold. Instead, its resilience lies in what social movement theorists call “laden structures”—existing institutions in various provinces, a legacy left by its founder, Michael Sata. The PF government excelled at establishing local chapters, a strategy that ultimately engulfed the MMD long before it captured Plot 1.

Moreover, the PF has refused to retreat quietly into the shadows after its 2021 electoral defeat. The political witch hunts and often politically motivated prosecutions under Hichilema’s administration have inadvertently forged the PF’s identity as a persecuted party. This witch hunt not only fosters solidarity within its ranks but also shapes public perception of Hichilema’s regime.

Hichilema’s repeated attacks on certain ethnic groups, particularly the Bembas and Easterners, have fueled further resentment among substantial segments of the electorate. Adding insult to injury, many voters from the PF base have noted that they were left out of agricultural assistance schemes that benefited UPND strongholds, providing fertile ground for the PF to exploit ethnic grievances in rural areas.

The economic situation has further played into the PF’s hands, with Hichilema’s once-promising campaign focused on economic reform now overshadowed by its own pitfalls. Faced with soaring inflation and crippling debt, Hichilema has backpedaled on nearly all his campaign commitments, contributing to a steep decline in his political popularity.

The return of former president Edgar Lungu to active politics has sent shockwaves through Hichilema’s administration, triggering a sense of urgency and panic. Rather than allowing time to prepare for a potential rematch in 2026, Hichilema has resorted to using law enforcement strategies to neutralize his opponents. This has resulted in a series of humiliations for the Lungu family and a rising sense of sympathy and support for Lungu in the public sphere. While some legal actions may be justified, many perceive them as mere “mingalatos” designed to stifle the PF’s resurgence.

In doing so, Hichilema has unwillingly aided the PF’s reorganization efforts in forging alliances with smaller parties. It remains uncertain whether these alliances will endure until election day. Should the economic situation improve dramatically, Hichilema could reestablish his political footing. Yet, the harsh reality remains: the PF has effectively painted Hichilema as a failure. Thus, they stand a better chance of regaining power—if they can present a compelling candidate.

Aware of this precarious situation, Hichilema will likely do everything in his power to halt the PF’s momentum. Nevertheless, it appears that, for now, the toothpaste is already out of the tube. No wonder the UPND is now retreating to the tactics of pre 1990 “one-party regime”—forcing civil servants, school children, and ordinary people to attend its political rallies!

By Venus N Msyani

The debate over amending Zambia’s constitution before the 2026 elections has taken center stage, with President Hakainde Hichilema leading the charge. This marks a historic moment, as no sitting Zambian president has ever spearheaded a constitutional amendment agenda.

President Hichilema has cited public sentiment at events he attends as evidence of widespread support for the amendment. However, critics argue that the Public Order Act, which restricts protests, makes it difficult to challenge his claims. Speaking at a Women’s Day celebration in Kasama, Northern Province, Hichilema stated, “I take it that as a nation we agree that we will amend the constitution before the 2026 election so we can deliver more opportunities for women and society as a whole.”

This assertion has raised questions: who exactly has agreed? At a Youth Day event in Mongu, Western Province, Hichilema sought to validate his claim by asking the crowd, “Do you agree that we amend the constitution?” The crowd responded with a resounding “YES.” He concluded, “The owners of the country, the youth, have agreed.”

The president’s motives have sparked debate. Information and Media Minister Cornelius Mweetwa defended Hichilema’s actions, stating, “The president has the right to reposition himself for 2026 because he is in a democratic competition. Positioning himself to win an election is perfectly in order.” This acknowledgment has led some to conclude that the constitutional amendment push is part of Hichilema’s strategy for the upcoming elections.

Key issues driving the amendment debate include proportional representation for women, youth, and disabled individuals in governance, the elimination of by-elections, and the delimitation of constituencies to improve service delivery. However, critics argue that these goals could be achieved without constitutional changes. For instance, political parties could sponsor more women candidates under the current constitution, and improving infrastructure in underserved constituencies might be a more effective way to enhance service delivery.

Some speculate that Hichilema’s push for constitutional amendments may be aimed at extending his time in office. This speculation contrasts with his earlier stance against leaders prolonging their terms, as expressed during a panel at the United States Institute of Peace three years ago. At the time, he stated, “Ten years is enough. Whatever years you agree, some are here extending terms – six, seven years. No, please!”

Today, rumors suggest that the New Dawn administration may seek to increase presidential terms from five to seven years. Critics question whether Hichilema’s current actions are laying the groundwork for such a change, potentially contradicting his earlier statements.

The sudden push for constitutional amendments has also raised concerns about governance priorities. Critics argue that the focus should be on addressing pressing issues like the high cost of living, which remains a top concern for Zambians. Additionally, questions have been raised about whether the current constitution indeed prevents political parties from sponsoring more women candidates or whether the delimitation of constituencies could be better addressed through infrastructure development, such as building modern roads and bridges.

Hichilema’s recent reshuffles have further fueled speculation about his intentions. When asked about critics’ concerns that these moves were aimed at positioning himself for the 2026 elections, Mweetwa responded, “The president has the right to reposition and position himself for 2026.” This statement has been interpreted as an admission that the constitutional amendment push may be politically motivated.

Ultimately, President Hichilema’s push for constitutional amendments has drawn scrutiny, with many urging him to abandon the agenda and focus on pressing issues that matter most to Zambians. While the debate continues, the high cost of living and other immediate challenges remain at the forefront of public concern.