By Given Mutinta
THE WANING POPULARITY OF PRESIDENT HICHILEMA IN WESTERN PROVINCE
Since President Hakainde Hichilema’s re-election campaign launch at Heroes’ Stadium, the nature of his rallies has come under scrutiny, in regions that include North-Western and Western Province.
Rather than drawing organically enthusiastic crowds, these events are increasingly staged, with cadres transported from far-flung areas to artificially boost attendance numbers.
This tactic points to a broader political reality: the President’s popularity, once robust, is now visibly diminishing.
At the campaign launch at Heroes’ stadium, extensive logistical arrangements saw paid artist and celebrities, and supporters ferried in from across the country.
Similarly, in North-Western Province, the closure of public schools for learners to attend and closure of public offices was orchestrated to ensure maximum turnout, revealing a strategic effort to inflate supporter presence rather than reflect genuine grassroots enthusiasm.
In Western Province, the pattern persists, with cadres arriving from remote locales such as Namushakendi and Mweeke just to be paraded at Mongu Airport, projecting an image of unwavering support that many perceive as superficial.
The political dynamics in Barotseland, in particular Western Province, further underscore this disillusionment.
Clement Wainyae Sinyinda, the former Ngambela of Barotseland, has publicly endorsed Brian Mundubile and his running mate Makebi Zulu, citing unfulfilled promises from President Hichilema’s first term.
This endorsement from a prominent local leader illustrates a fracture in the president’s support base, signaling that loyalty is no longer automatic.
Additionally, Barotseland human rights activist Munyinda Munukayumbwa has praised Sinyinda’s bold stance, valuing commitment to justice over blind allegiance to a president who is a liar.
This unfolding political narrative confirms a broader sentiment: many provinces across the country, including Western Province, have grown weary of President Hichilema’s leadership and unmet expectations.
The increasing reliance on ferrying supporters to rallies is a telling symptom of this waning popularity.