Kalaba recognises Mundubile’s resilience, conviction amid “historic flawed processes”
Kalaba recognises Mundubile’s resilience, conviction amid “historic flawed processes”
CITIZENS First president Harry Kalaba has broken ranks with the usual post-election silence to publicly salute Tonse Alliance president Brian Mundubile, describing him as a symbol of resilience and conviction.
Kalaba said Mundubile fought on despite what he described one of the most deeply flawed processes in the history of the country.
“To stand firm under conditions of intimidation, provocation and systemic irregularities requires resilience, conviction and an unwavering commitment to democratic principles and they deserve recognition for that,” he said.
In a statement, the opposition leader paid tribute to Zambians for choosing peace over chaos in the wake of the 13 August elections, but warned the country is steadily eroding the very democratic foundations it once proudly championed.
He congratulated voters, civic leaders and faith-based organizations for their oversight, while delivering his sharpest criticism yet of the electoral process.
“The conduct of ordinary citizens during and after the polls reflected the character of the nation, even as institutions failed them.
“At the same time, I wish to commend the people of Zambia. In the face of clear provocation, intimidation and a worrying departure from established norms and standards of election management, our citizens chose restraint over chaos, peace over conflict and dignity over disorder,” he added.
The former Foreign Affairs Minister further described as systemic failures that threaten Zambia’s democratic standing.
He said the process witnessed raises serious concerns that cannot be ignored.
He said reports of intimidation, interference with polling processes, inconsistencies in the handling of materials and the uneven application of the law point to a process that fell far short of the democratic standards Zambia has historically upheld.
Kalaba said the responsibility for restoring credibility to the country’s democratic processes lies squarely with those entrusted with managing them.
“Our institutions must rise above reproach. The integrity of whom the people choose must be protected not only in outcome, but in process. Without that, the very legitimacy of governance is called into question,” he said.
©TV Yatu | Sanfrossa Mberi | August 19, 2026.