Riding the wave; is Brian Muntayalwa Mundubile opposition’s biggest threat?
TONSE Alliance Presidentisl Aspirant on the Forum for Democracy and Development FDD ticket Mr. Brian Muntayalwa Mundubile. - Picture by Andy Luki jr.
By Chikankatika Alex 5 April, 2026 Sunday
There is something striking, almost astonishing about the groundswell of public enthusiasm currently surrounding Brian Mundubile and his Tonse Alliance team ahead of the highly anticipated 13th August polls in Zambia. Even before the Electoral Commission of Zambia officially opens its massive mobilisation window, the momentum on the ground tells its own story. Crowds are forming, conversations are intensifying, and a sense of political awakening appears to be taking root across various constituencies.
What makes this moment even more remarkable is the unusual dynamic shaping the political landscape. Traditionally, one would expect the ruling establishment to be the primary counterforce against a rising opposition figure. Yet, in this season, it is not the ruling party that seems most preoccupied with Mundubile’s growing influence. Instead, segments within the opposition space particularly smaller or fragmented political groupings appear to be the most vocal in attempting to challenge his ascent.
This has raised eyebrows among observers. Some of these critics are perceived as politically isolated, lacking broad grassroots structures or national appeal. Others, despite possessing professional credentials such as legal expertise, face questions in the court of public opinion regarding credibility and consistency. Meanwhile, a number of opposition figures, though confident in posture, struggle to translate that confidence into widespread voter connection, often appearing out of touch with the electorate they seek to persuade, despite some of them being former members of Parliament.
There is also a growing sentiment that some of these attacks miss the broader political reality. Electoral outcomes, such as those witnessed in 2021, are complex and deeply localised, shaped ward by ward, community by community. To attribute success or failure to a single individual oversimplifies the democratic process. In contrast, Mundubile’s camp points to what they describe as tangible political traction, highlighted by the alignment or support of a notable number of the clergy, civil society organizations, serving and former leaders, including Members of Parliament, council chairpersons, mayors, and councillors.
In this context, the focus of political engagement becomes an important question. For critics within the opposition, there is an argument to be made for introspection, strengthening internal systems, rebuilding public trust, and addressing controversies or perceptions that may undermine their own credibility. Political competition, after all, is most effective when it is grounded in ideas, integrity, and a clear vision for national development.
As the electoral season approaches its peak, one thing remains clear: BRIAN MUNDUBILE AND THE TONSE ALLIANCE HAVE CAPTURED A LEVEL OF PUBLIC ATTENTION THAT CANNOT BE EASILY DISMISSED. Whether this translates into electoral victory will ultimately be decided by the Zambian people. But for now, the energy, the mobilisation, and the conversation surrounding his candidacy continue to shape one of the most intriguing political moments in recent memory.
By Chikankatika Alex
[Tonse Alliance Deputy Director – Administration]
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