Lubinda: Opposition Unity Key, But Choosing a Leader Won’t Be Easy

Patriotic Front (PF) acting president Given Lubinda says uniting the opposition is essential, but selecting a leader won’t be “child’s play.”

Speaking on Emmanuel Mwamba’s podcast on Tuesday, Lubinda stressed that choosing a leader requires consensus, compromise, and genuine commitment to national interest over personal ambition. He acknowledged internal differences, warning that the process could be a “point of departure” for some.

“We are into this not for ourselves but for the country,” he said. “Zambians are calling for unity in the opposition, and we must answer that call, without leaving anyone behind.”

Lubinda said opposition parties must recognise their diversity as a reflection of Zambia’s own and work towards common ground, even with those who express doubts.

“Some may appear divisive, but we must not discard them. Let’s reach out and listen, just as we want to be heard.”

He also warned against overconfidence within PF.

“We must not think being the largest opposition party means we can go it alone. We must unite with like-minded groups, especially against a regime that won’t give up power easily.”

Reflecting on former president Edgar Lungu’s influence, Lubinda revealed Lungu personally asked him to lead the PF after stepping aside post-2021 elections, despite Lubinda’s own plans to retire.