Hakainde Hichilema’s Politics of Exploitation and Betrayal: The Case of Joseph Akafumba, Former Home Affairs PS – Used and Discarded
By Thandiwe Ketis Ngoma
President Hakainde Hichilema’s leadership is marked by a pattern of using individuals to execute his political schemes—only to discard them once they have outlived their usefulness. One of the most striking examples of this betrayal is former Permanent Secretary (PS) Joseph Akafumba, who was used to destroy opposition forces and manipulate democratic institutions, only to be cast aside when his services were no longer needed.
Akafumba’s Role in Destroying the Democratic Party (DP)
Before President Harry Kalaba formed Citizens First (CF), he led the Democratic Party (DP)—a formidable opposition party that posed a serious challenge to Hichilema’s UPND government. However, rather than competing fairly in a democratic space, Hichilema deployed Akafumba to sabotage the party from within.
Using his position as PS in the Ministry of Home Affairs, he influenced the Registrar of Societies to illegally alter DP’s records, manipulating its leadership structures to destabilize Kalaba’s political ambitions. This blatant interference was not just an attack on President Kalaba but a direct assault on Zambia’s multiparty democracy.
When Kalaba later formed Citizens First (CF), it was clear that his political survival was despite UPND’s efforts to eliminate him, proving the extent to which Hichilema and his allies abuse state institutions to crush political opponents.
Facilitated the Illegal Changes of Legitimate PF Office Bearers at the Registrar of Societies
Akafumba’s undemocratic activities did not stop with DP—he was also central in the unlawful takeover of the PF leadership, acting as a key player in Hichilema’s plan to weaken the largest opposition party.
First, he helped orchestrate the removal of PF’s legitimate office bearers, replacing them with Miles Sampa, a figure more compliant with UPND’s agenda.
When Sampa’s usefulness ended, Akafumba facilitated yet another illegal takeover, this time installing Robert Chabinga—another puppet designed to further dismantle PF.
These actions violated democratic principles and the rule of law, showing how UPND abuses state institutions to manipulate opposition politics.
Blocking UKA Registration
Akafumba also played a critical role in blocking the lawful registration of the United Kwacha Alliance (UKA)—a coalition that sought to unite opposition forces against Hichilema’s growing authoritarian rule.
Using his position as PS in the Ministry of Home Affairs, he deliberately obstructed UKA’s registration, making it difficult for opposition parties to operate freely. His actions included direct abuse of office, using state power to serve partisan interests, violating citizens’ constitutional rights, and preventing Zambians from associating and organizing politically.
This reckless disregard for democratic norms exposed Hichilema’s real agenda—consolidating power through manipulation, suppression, and institutional corruption.
Why Was Akafumba Discarded?
Despite his unwavering loyalty in executing these undemocratic schemes, Akafumba was eventually discarded—his fate mirroring that of many others who have served Hichilema’s interests.
Was he no longer useful? With the damage already done, Akafumba’s role became unnecessary.
Did he become a liability? His actions had drawn too much scrutiny, making him politically inconvenient.
Was he sacrificed to protect Hichilema’s reputation? As criticism of UPND’s authoritarian tendencies grew, distancing from Akafumba became a strategic move.
His sudden removal follows a pattern of betrayal—where those who serve Hichilema are used, discarded, and left to face the consequences alone.
The Warning: More Will Follow
Akafumba’s rise and fall is a warning to those who continue to serve Hichilema’s political agenda. Many more will suffer the same fate—used for political destruction and then abandoned when no longer needed.
Zambians must ask: If Hichilema can betray those who worked for him, what does this mean for the ordinary citizen?
Akafumba may be gone, but Hichilema’s legacy of using and discarding people remains unchanged—until Zambians reject this style of governance once and for all.
Hakainde Hichilema’s Politics of Exploitation and Betrayal: The Case of Joseph Akafumba, Former Home Affairs PS – Used and Discarded
