UPND Condemns Mazabuka Violence, Expels 15 Members

The ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) has expelled 15 members following violent scenes at the Mazabuka civic centre during the filing of nomination papers by former party member Garry Nkombo, who is contesting the Mazabuka Central parliamentary seat as an independent candidate.

In a statement issued by Secretary General Hon. Batuke Imenda, the party strongly condemned the disorder and confirmed that disciplinary action had been taken against those identified as participants in the disturbances. Preliminary investigations led to the expulsions, with the party stressing that the individuals had acted on their own and outside the principles, values and discipline of the UPND.

The party reaffirmed its respect for the Constitution and the rule of law, noting that every eligible citizen has the right to contest elections, whether on a party ticket or as an independent. It described violence, intimidation and any attempt to obstruct candidates from exercising their democratic rights as incompatible with the party's values and Zambia's democratic principles.

The UPND called on the Zambia Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to act swiftly and professionally in bringing all perpetrators to book, regardless of status or political affiliation. The party reiterated that it does not condone lawlessness, hooliganism or political violence in any form.

President Hakainde Hichilema has consistently maintained that anyone who breaks the law stands alone, regardless of their standing in society, and has reaffirmed Government's commitment to peace and order throughout the electoral process.

The party also issued a warning to any individuals or groups contemplating electoral misconduct, stating that such behaviour would not be tolerated as the country approaches the General Elections on 13 August 2026.

The UPND closed by urging its members and supporters to remain calm, disciplined and focused on issue-based campaigns in the run-up to the polls.