President Hichilema to Southern Province: Back UPND, Reject Independents

President Hakainde Hichilema has called on voters in Southern Province to reject independent candidates and back only official United Party for National Development (UPND) contenders in upcoming August 13 General Election.

President Hichilema has further warned that opposition alliances seeking power are composed of individuals of “questionable character.”

​The Head of State made the remarks during a community engagement in Mazabuka District, which followed an earlier stop in Chikankata District where he urged residents to remain steadfast in their support for the ruling party to ensure the sustained delivery of development projects across the region.

​Addressing residents in Mazabuka, President Hichilema expressed gratitude to the community for voting the UPND into office in 2021.

​”We inherited a difficult government plagued with massive debt, but through focused leadership, we managed to restructure that debt and introduce policies directly benefiting the masses, including free education,” President Hichilema said.

​Outlining key development projects earmarked for the district, the President announced plans to construct a modern general hospital in Mazabuka fully equipped with all amenities, alongside the establishment of a specialised skills training college focusing on vocational trades.

​To ease transport congestion and facilitate regional trade, President Hichilema highlighted ongoing work toward dual-carriageway infrastructure linking Lusaka to Livingstone, and reaffirmed government plans to expand the Social Cash Transfer programme to benefit more vulnerable households.

​Addressing internal party politics and electoral alignment, President Hichilema rejected claims by independent candidates that they enjoy party endorsement.

​”There are no independent candidates in the UPND. Anyone telling voters that I have endorsed them is lying,” he stated. He added that opposition alliances competing for governance lack credibility and should not be given the opportunity to lead the country.

​During the engagement, the President also touched on constitutional amendments, asserting that the reform process was designed to guarantee direct representation for women, young people, and persons living with disabilities. He criticised political figures who opposed the amendments, accusing them of failing to prioritise public interest.

​President Hichilema specifically noted that efforts were made in the past to reconcile issues surrounding embattled former Member of Parliament Garry Nkombo, accusing him of aligning with opposition leader Brian Mundubile and opposing key national reform agendas.