By Given Mutinta
GARY NKOMBO’S TURNING POINT IN UPND POLITICS
After nearly two decades as a prominent figure within the United Party for National Development (UPND), Gary Nkombo has officially resigned, marking the end of an era and the start of a new chapter in his political journey.
His tenure in parliamentary politics began in 2006 when he was elected as the Member of Parliament for Mazabuka Central.
Through successive elections, he maintained his seat, establishing himself as a steadfast advocate for his constituency.
Over the years, he held several influential positions, most notably as the Minister of Local Government, a role from which he was controversially dismissed in 2025.
His removal from ministerial office was not the end of his political setbacks.
Nkombo was also relieved of his duties as the party’s Elections Chairperson and later excluded from the list of UPND parliamentary candidates, a move that forced him to consider running as an independent.
These events, culminating in physical attacks by state agents aimed at preventing him from filing his nomination as an independent candidate, starkly illustrate the turbulent waters he has navigated in recent years.
He was then arrested for defending himself against state agents attackers and released on bail.
Despite a series of humiliations and apparent sidelining within the party, Nkombo initially attempted to maintain his association with the UPND and its leader, President Hakainde Hichilema.
This persistence reflected both a deep loyalty and perhaps an uncertainty about his future outside the party.
However, the repeated challenges some threatening his life made it increasingly untenable for him to force a relationship with a party that no longer acknowledged his contributions or presence.
Ultimately, the decision to resign was both inevitable and necessary.
Nkombo himself cunningly acknowledged that it was no longer healthy—emotionally or politically—to remain in a space where he was not wanted.
His resignation does not signal the end of his political ambitions.
On the contrary, he will contest the Mazabuka Central seat as an independent candidate.
This move could be a catalyst for broader changes, either through potential alliances with other political parties or the formation of his own movement in the future.
For his supporters, this is a moment of hope—a chance to redefine his political legacy outside the constraints of the UPND toxic politics.
Nkombo is a politically gifted parliamentarian whose abilities and experience set him apart in our political landscape.
If he chooses to join another party or establish his own, his leadership qualities and public appeal will likely see him rise quickly through the ranks.
His reputation as an effective leader makes him a valuable asset wherever he goes but intimidates others.
Truly, he is a lamp on a hill that cannot be covered—his influence and vision will continue to shine, shaping the course of our politics regardless of his affiliation or platform.
