UPND Condemns Return of PF Cadreism

The United Party for National Development (UPND) has issued a stern warning against resurgent political violence, accusing Patriotic Front factions of reviving the intimidation tactics that characterised their time in government.

In a statement released Thursday, UPND Deputy National Spokesperson Elvis Chishala Nkandu cited two recent incidents highlighting what he described as "entrenched thuggery" within the PF. Acting PF President Given Lubinda was forced to abandon a radio interview at Phoenix FM after suspected party cadres surrounded the station, while suspected PF supporters invaded opposition politician Sean Tembo's residence, disrupting a press briefing and blocking journalist access.

"These are deliberate tactics designed to commandeer power through fear rather than persuasion," Nkandu stated, calling on PF factions aligned with Lubinda and Brian Mundubile to disown violent methods.

The UPND warned that unchecked violence could undermine the 2026 elections, potentially discouraging voter participation after a series of peaceful by-elections under the current administration.

Nkandu urged law enforcement agencies to act impartially against political violence, emphasising that democracy requires freedom, respect, and rule of law rather than intimidation.

"Politics should be about ideas, not intimidation," the statement concluded, calling on the PF to engage in issue-based dialogue and restore discipline among its membership.