Kebby Mbewe, a member of the Central Committee and Vice President of the Patriotic Front (PF), shared his views on Zambia’s political landscape, underscoring the importance of unity, democratic growth, and the role of alliances in the country’s governance.
He expressed concern about the state of national unity under the United Party for National Development (UPND), led by President Hakainde Hichilema, and offered insights into the PF’s stance as the country moves toward upcoming elections.
“Politics is a career, and it should bring the people of Zambia together,” Mbewe stated.
He emphasized that politics should not be divisive, but rather a force that unites people.
“When people talk about politics, it has to bring more unity because it shows that democracy is growing,” he continued, adding that this growth is a signal of national unity.
Addressing rumors that the PF is inactive, Mbewe was firm: “PF has never been dead at all. We lost power, but members are still behind PF.”
He noted that the party remains robust and committed to offering checks and balances to the UPND government.
Mbewe also responded to allegations that PF seeks to “bulldoze” its way into the Tuan Tse and Mpuka regions. “I’ve never heard that,” he said. He clarified that the PF’s alliances with other parties, such as the Tuan Tse alliance, are about “sharing common goals together” and striving for “the betterment of the Zambian people.”
As Zambia nears another election season, Mbewe refrained from predicting the future, asserting, “That is not me to say. It’s for the Zambian people to decide.” He emphasized that his role, along with his party’s, is to ensure a fair and democratic process, which ultimately relies on the will of the people.
The recent partnership between the UPND and the Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD) is something Mbewe sees as a positive development. “The coming together of MMD and UPND shows democracy,” he said. For him, alliances reflect political maturity. “Let’s embrace these alliances… it shows that we are getting closer to a true democracy.”
Regarding the alleged political persecution of PF members, Mbewe noted that “every Zambian is seeing what is happening.” He acknowledged that some PF members face legal challenges, with some in prison or before the courts. “This is something that I don’t desire to see,” he added, voicing a hope for national reconciliation and unity, where all citizens are valued equally.
In response to a question about reconciliation between Zambia’s past and present presidents, Mbewe highlighted the importance of peace, saying, “Where there is unity, there is peace. Where there is peace, there is progress.” He expressed hope that Zambia’s leaders would come together, echoing the national motto: “One Zambia, one nation.”
Concluding his remarks, Mbewe reiterated the PF’s commitment to its vision for Zambia and encouraged citizens to engage constructively as they look toward the future.
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