UPND deputy national spokesperson Elvis Nkandu says Mumbi Phiri’s tribal remarks are regrettable and divisive.
On Saturday, Phiri made tribal remarks in a WhatsApp group where she was reacting to a post by Lukashya member of parliament George Chisanga.
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In a voice note, the PF member was heard saying that if a Bemba presidential aspiring candidate picked an Easterner as running mate, the former ruling party will definitely scoop the 2026 general election.
Responding to Phiri’s remarks in a statement, Nkandu stated that tribalism ran counter to the very foundation upon which Zambia was built.
“Zambia was founded on an unshakable ideal. One Zambia, One Nation. This was not merely a slogan but a solemn pledge. A pledge that every citizen, regardless of tribe or region, would belong equally to one nation under one flag. To suggest that political success must depend on ethnic combinations is a betrayal of that founding vision and the sacrifices of those who came before us,” he explained.
The deputy party spokesperson urged the PF and other opposition parties to focus on how best they can deliver development for the country and refrain from tribal politics.
“The UPND therefore calls upon all members of civil society, political leaders across all parties, and every citizen to reject and condemn such divisive rhetoric in the strongest possible terms. Our unity has been our strength for six decades, and it remains the cornerstone of our democracy and peace,” he said.
“Let us always remember that our future depends not on what divides us, but on what unites us. Together, we are moving forward as One Zambia, One Nation.”
He explained that President Hakainde Hichilema and his administration believe that leadership must be anchored in merit, public service and the collective good, not in tribal arithmetic.
“Zambia’s leadership will never be defined by tribe, but by commitment to the people. This administration will be judged by the people on the effectiveness of its policies and how well they serve the nation. Whether that is expansion of the CDF, delivering free education or unlocking economic growth,” stated Nkandu.
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, October 6, 2025
