PF Broke as Lubinda Claims He Is Bankrolling Chawama Campaign

Acting Patriotic Front (PF) president Given Lubinda has claimed the party is broke and that he has been personally financing recent by-election campaigns, including the ongoing Chawama contest.

Speaking on a programme, Lubinda said PF currently has no operational funds and accused some senior members of making loud pledges without contributing anything. He singled out Mpika PF MP Francis Kapyanga, arguing that those who speak the most should be questioned about how much they have actually given to the party. Lubinda said some members promise figures as high as K50,000 during meetings but fail to contribute even K1 when campaigns begin, leaving him and a few loyal members to shoulder the financial burden.

Lubinda also dismissed claims that he is a UPND project, saying his acquittal in corruption-related cases was the result of the justice system, not political favour. He recalled being investigated and prosecuted for years before being found innocent, adding that others accused of wrongdoing have never been tested in court.

Meanwhile, Lubinda warned of confusion within the Tonse Alliance, saying two parties, the New Congress Party (NCP) and the Christian Forum (CF), are both claiming to be the special purpose vehicle endorsed by former president Edgar Lungu. He urged PF supporters in Chawama to remember that Edgar Lungu and his family were PF members before joining the alliance, and to prioritise party loyalty when making political choices.