Reported by: S. Ernest.
Date: 16th January, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
The United Party for National Development (UPND) has issued a strong call for discipline among its members as the party gears up for its first general election as the ruling party in 2026.
Speaking at a press briefing held today at the UPND headquarters, Anderson Kambela Mazoka House, the UPND Information and Publicity Chairperson, who also serves as the Chief Government Spokesperson, Mr. Cornelius Mweetwa, underscored the importance of maintaining order and discipline within the party ranks.
Mr. Mweetwa reiterated the party’s commitment to upholding its values, stating: “UPND is a party of order and discipline. We call upon all our members to adhere to these principles. Indiscipline and disorder will not be tolerated under any circumstances.”
The warning comes as the party intensifies preparations for the 2026 general elections, a significant milestone as it will be the first election contested by the UPND while in government. Mr. Mweetwa emphasized that discipline is crucial to ensuring the party’s continued success and credibility.
As part of its commitment to enforcing internal order, Mr. Mweetwa announced the expulsion of Mr. Freezir Moonde, a member of the National Management Committee (NMC), for acts of indiscipline. According to Mr. Mweetwa, Mr. Moonde violated the party constitution by taking internal NMC matters to Facebook, a move deemed contrary to the party’s established code of conduct.
“This decision to expel Mr. Moonde was made in accordance with the UPND’s disciplinary constitution. Such behavior undermines the party’s unity and principles, and we will not hesitate to take action against any member engaging in similar conduct,” Mr. Mweetwa stated.
Mr. Mweetwa also announced the expulsion of Mr. Kebby Sikanyila, a councilor for Chisankane Ward in Kafue, citing misconduct involving the recording and distribution of internal party matters on various platforms. This action was deemed a serious breach of the UPND’s code of conduct and a violation of its principles of confidentiality and discipline.
He further urged all members to emulate the party leader, President Hakainde Hichilema, whom he described as a man of discipline and order. “President Hichilema sets a high standard for all of us. We must follow his example to maintain the integrity and unity of our party,” he added.
The UPND’s stance serves as a clear message to its members about the importance of discipline, unity and adherence to party principles as the party works to solidify its position ahead of the 2026 elections.
Picture credit: UPND Zambia
The Agency