Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 23rd March, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
The United Party for National Development (UPND) continues to strengthen its political footprint, receiving 250 new members from the PF/Tonse alliance in Ngwerere Ward 22, Mandevu Constituency. The official welcoming ceremony was presided over by UPND National Chairman for Special Duties, Mr. William Banda, and attended by key party officials from the constituency, district, and provincial levels.
In his address, Mr. Banda urged the new members to uphold discipline and respect for all citizens. He emphasized that the UPND is a party anchored on order and inclusivity, encouraging defectors who aspire for leadership positions to apply through the appropriate channels. “The UPND is open to all Zambians who want to contribute to political, governance and development. We do not tolerate insults in the name of our party — discipline and respect remain at the core of who we are,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, the Lusaka District Youth Chairperson Mr. Anderson Banda welcomed the defectors and called on party structures to give them space and support for growth. He issued a strong warning to Ward Development Committees (WDCs) working against government efforts, urging them to ensure that development funds benefit intended communities. Mr. Banda highlighted the government’s commitment to empowering youth and women across all sectors, noting that their involvement is key to driving national development.
Representing the defectors, Ms. Peggy Chola expressed deep gratitude to President Hakainde Hichilema for his visionary leadership. She praised the President’s proactive approach in mitigating the effects of the ongoing drought through initiatives like Food for Work, Cash for Work, the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), and Ward Development Funds (WDF). “We are leaving behind a party that has lost direction and unity. The PF now has three presidents with no clear vision, while the UPND is demonstrating true leadership and care for the people,” Chola stated.
Mr. William Banda also noted that the growing number of defectors is a clear reflection of the public’s trust in President Hichilema and the UPND government. “The wave of defections is not by chance; it is a testament to the confidence people have in our President and our party’s commitment to development and good governance,” he said.
The event was graced by several prominent figures, including aspiring Member of Parliament for Mandevu, Mr. Ross Kasikili, and ward councillors, all of whom echoed the call for unity, discipline, and sustained development efforts.
The gathering served as yet another demonstration of the UPND’s commitment to inclusiveness, unity, and the empowerment of all citizens.
The Agency.