Honourable Vernon Mwanga’s remarks highlight the critical need for credible political alternatives and robust competition in Zambia’s 2026 elections to preserve democratic integrity.
By Hon. Ponde C. Mecha, and edited by Mpandashalo Mwewa.
Lusaka, Oct. 8 – Honourable Vernon J. Mwanga, a stalwart of Zambian politics, recently sparked national debate with his comments on the lack of alternatives to the UPND and President Hakainde Hichilema for the 2026 elections. In exercising his constitutional right to free speech, Mwanga’s words demand attention, not dismissal. As a veteran who has shaped Zambia’s political landscape for decades, his opinions carry the weight of experience and insight, deserving careful consideration by both political players and the electorate. Whether one agrees or not with his assessment, dismissing his perspective would be a grave oversight.
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Debates should zero in on the bedrock policies of each candidate’s campaign, casting a spotlight on their vision for a Zambia that’s not just keeping its head above water but riding the crest of the wave.
Mwanga’s observations highlight a deeper issue: the urgent need for viable political alternatives in Zambia. Democracy, after all, thrives on competition. For 2026 to be a genuine contest, opposition parties must rise to the occasion and present platforms that speak to the needs of the Zambian people. If Zambia is to maintain its democratic integrity, the political arena cannot afford to rest on the laurels of one party. Mwanga’s words should stir opposition forces into action, pushing them to provide the electorate with a real choice and demand accountability from the current leadership.
It’s also important to recognize Mwanga’s voice as that of a statesman whose experience enriches the national dialogue. In African culture, elders are repositories of wisdom, and their views, especially on governance, should not be hastily cast aside. As Zambia charts its future, it is crucial to foster intergenerational conversations where leaders like Mwanga contribute to shaping the political discourse. His views offer an opportunity for reflection, not only for the opposition but for every Zambian concerned with the country’s trajectory.
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As the country gears up for the 2026 elections, the focus must shift to ensuring that political debates remain rooted in democratic values. Disagreements should not breed contempt, but instead, ignite constructive discourse. Zambia’s democracy has always been its pride, a beacon of resilience in the region. For the upcoming elections to reflect this spirit, political actors must engage openly, respecting freedom of speech and creating space for diverse opinions. The essence of democracy lies in this multiplicity of voices and the ability of the electorate to make informed decisions.
In the end, the power to shape Zambia’s future rests in the hands of its people. Honourable Mwanga’s remarks serve as a reminder that the health of any democracy is contingent on vibrant political engagement. As 2026 approaches, Zambia must remain committed to nurturing a political landscape that is inclusive, transparent, and competitive. Let this be a moment where both the ruling party and the opposition work towards offering real solutions, ensuring that the people of Zambia are given the true democratic choice they deserve.
About The Author: Hon. Ponde Chunga Mecha is the immediate past MP for Chifunabuli Constituency. He has worked and executed various development programmes in the agriculture sector under various funding sources including GRZ, World Bank, NORAD, FINNIDA, FAO, Melinda and Bill Gates Foundation, USAID and the EU.
About Our Advocacy: Woodpecker’s Digest provides in-depth analyses and commentary on issues of national importance, alongside articles on personal development and health. We believe journalism can be a force for socio-economic change.
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