Opposition in Disarray as Leaders Contradict Each other

Patriotic Front (PF) acting president Given Lubinda has denied knowledge of a plan to select a presidential candidate within two weeks, directly contradicting Socialist Party leader Fred M'membe's recent announcement.

The confusion is the latest sign of disarray within the United Front, an opposition alliance that includes the PF, Socialist Party, and several smaller parties hoping to challenge the ruling UPND in 2026 elections.

Dr M'membe had publicly stated that the alliance would have a presidential candidate selected within a fortnight. But when asked about this decision, Lubinda told journalists on Thursday he was unaware of any such plan.

"I'm afraid to say that I did not attend the last few meetings of the United Front, so I'm not aware of that decision," he said.

The apparent discord comes as the PF continues to grapple with internal turmoil following the death of former president Edgar Lungu in June and what Lubinda describes as a "bloodless coup" in October 2023, when Miles Sampa took control of the party.

"We are not yet out of the woods," Lubinda admitted, revealing the party remains in mourning as Lungu's burial has been delayed.

Despite the obvious tensions, Lubinda insisted opposition parties were working to "bridge their differences" ahead of the 2026 polls. He compared the process to courtship before marriage, urging patience.

"You don't force relationships, you work towards them," he said, acknowledging that "skirmishes" between opposition parties were part of reaching consensus.

However, with key figures apparently unaware of major decisions, the alliance's ability to coordinate effectively ahead of the 2026 elections remains uncertain.