UPND Condemns 'Divisive' Ethnic Politics Remarks

United Party for National Development has strongly criticised opposition figure Mumbi Phiri for comments it says promote ethnic-based politics.

The UPND accused the Patriotic Front politician of suggesting political success should depend on tribal combinations, calling her remarks a "betrayal" of the nation’s founding principle of "One Zambia, One Nation".

In a statement issued Sunday, UPND Deputy National Spokesperson Elvis Nkandu said President Hakainde Hichilema's government believes leadership should be based on merit and public service rather than ethnicity.

"Zambia's leadership will never be defined by tribe, but by commitment to the people," Mr Nkandu said, urging all political parties to focus on policy delivery instead of what he termed "tribal politicking".

The UPND pointed to its expansion of constituency development funds and free education policy as examples of nationwide programmes.

The party called on civil society and citizens to reject divisive rhetoric, saying national unity has underpinned the country’s democracy and peace since independence.

The Patriotic Front, which governed Zambia from 2011 to 2021, has not yet responded to the criticism.