In the aftermath of the opposition’s victory in Zambia, the former ruling party Patriotic Front suffered a series of defections. Several members slammed the door to outgoing President Edgar Lungu’s party after his defeat to opponent Hakainde Hichilema. And according to some analysts, the storm has just begun.
Among the defections, the one of the influential Charles Kakoma is particularly notable. Deported from Hichiléma’s party, UPND, he had joined the Patriotic Front, the party then in power, almost five months ago, and condemned the lack of views on Hakainde Hichilema. Today, this politician from the constituency Zambezi West changes his speech again and confirms that he has always been faithful to the UPND.
Same story with Edify Hamukale. The Patriotic Front candidate for the Mazabuka Central constituency is leaving the party, but says he remains “a patriot of a homeland”. Others, such as Andrew Lubabasha, MP for the Chipangali constituency, have expressed their willingness to join the opposition.
Parliamentary observers question the political positioning of Dora Siliya, communications minister and failed candidate for the Patriotic Front in the Petauke Central constituency. Yesterday, she congratulated Hakainde Hichilema on his victory and said that the will of the people had been heard. A few years ago, Siliya left the then ruling MMD party to join the Patriotic Front.
Analysts said it would only take a handful of members of the Patriotic Front who turn against the UPND to give Hichilema control of parliament. In the legislative elections that took place at the same time as the presidential election, UPND won 60% of the seats.
► To read also: Zambia: opponent Hakainde Hichilema largely wins presidential election
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