PF Orders Halt to Unofficial Presidential Campaigns

The Patriotic Front has ordered party members to immediately stop all unauthorised presidential campaigns and endorsements ahead of its leadership election.

Emmanuel Mwamba, the party's Information and Publicity Chairperson, said on Wednesday that such activities were damaging the PF's reputation and making it appear chaotic.

"These acts amount to lawlessness," Mr Mwamba said in a statement, warning that unsanctioned campaigns would not be tolerated.

The directive comes as the party prepares to elect a new leader following the death of former president Edgar Lungu earlier this month.

Acting party president Given Lubinda is currently leading efforts to organise a general conference where a new president will be chosen.

At a Central Committee meeting on 6 October, party leaders agreed to consult with the Lungu family before finalising conference plans. A committee headed by Lupososhi MP Emmanuel Mpankanta was established to prepare campaign guidelines and logistics.

Mr Mwamba said an urgent Central Committee meeting would be held this Sunday, 2 November, to discuss the situation and plan for the ongoing voter registration exercise.

He urged senior leaders to support Mr Lubinda and Secretary General Raphael Nakacinda in maintaining party unity during this transition period.

The PF has been embroiled in legal battles with the government over control of the party, with Mr Mwamba saying the party constitution remains "our guiding light" through these challenges.