Andyford Banda Steps Down as Mushimba’s Running Mate

Brian Mushimba’s presidential running mate, Andyford Banda has officially pulled out of the upcoming general election.

In May Banda was revealed as Dr Mushimba’s running mate under the Organized People’s Party (OPP) during filing of nominations by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ).

Prior to this Banda served as People’s Alliance for Change (PAC) president. Announced on Wednesday, Dr Mushimba said ECZ had been notified and the party was waiting for guidance on the next legal action. He said the party would comply with the law.

Dr Mushimba said the OPP remains “united, focused and deeply committed to providing Zambians with the credible, practical and principled leadership our country deserves. Our vision and our promises to the people of Zambia stand firm.”

On Tuesday, ECZ Chief Electoral Officer Brown Kasaro said the presidential election would still proceed even if a candidate withdraws from the race at this stage.