CF DEFECTIONS TO TONSE ALLIANCE ADD NEW TWIST TO ELECTION RACE
The decision by Citizens First (CF) vice-presidential candidate Moses Mawere and senior party member Chishimba Kambwili to join the Tonse Alliance has added a fresh twist to Zambia’s political landscape, just weeks before the August 13 General Election.
The development has intensified attention on the ongoing political realignments as parties seek to strengthen their positions ahead of polling day. Political observers note that such alliances are often aimed at consolidating support, preventing vote splitting and improving electoral prospects, raising speculation that more politicians could make similar moves before the election.
Despite the high-profile departures, Citizens First president Harry Kalaba has maintained that the party remains focused on its vision and campaign agenda. In a statement, Kalaba wished Mawere and Kambwili well in their future political endeavours while reaffirming the party’s commitment to what it describes as principled leadership.
The defections have also sparked speculation over whether Kalaba himself could eventually join the Tonse Alliance.
However, based on his latest remarks, such a move appears unlikely. Kalaba said the party’s mission remains unchanged and that it is firmly committed to building “a united, prosperous and corruption-free Zambia.” He further assured supporters that the party’s resolve is stronger than ever, signalling that Citizens First will continue its election campaign despite losing two of its senior members.
GroundTruth Zambia | 10th July, 2026.
CF DEFECTIONS TO TONSE ALLIANCE ADD NEW TWIST TO ELECTION RACE
