LETTER TO HON. GARY NKOMBO
Dear Hon. Gary Nkombo,
Your political journey remains written not only in the history of the United Party for National Development (UPND), but also in the hearts of many Zambians and citizens across the SADC region who followed the sacrifices that built the democratic path our nation walks today.
From the days when UPND stood in the wilderness of opposition, through the seasons of political persecution, intimidation, and uncertainty, your loyalty to President Hakainde Hichilema and the party never shook. At a time when many watched politics from the terraces, you stood firmly on the battlefield defending the vision of a better Zambia.
History will never forget the painful moments you endured during the brutal PF era — especially the dark night at Community House when state machinery descended upon the opposition leadership. While many remained silent, you stood courageous enough to question injustice, and in doing so, you suffered physically at the hands of those who feared democracy. Such scars are not signs of weakness; they are political medals earned in the struggle for freedom.
Leadership is not measured only by the offices one occupies, but by the discipline one demonstrates when power changes direction. When you were relieved from your duties as Minister of Local Government and Housing, you chose the rare path of maturity, restraint, and silence. You avoided public bitterness, political rebellion, and emotional retaliation. That decision alone elevated your statesmanship above ordinary politics.
In politics, silence is often misunderstood by the impatient, yet history teaches us that silence can also be preparation. While speculation continues regarding your future, your calmness has quietly repositioned you as one of the respected sons of the soil whom many party members still believe in and trust.
You must also appreciate the confidence and respect President Hakainde Hichilema has continued to show you. Despite your removal from Cabinet, the President never publicly humiliated or politically destroyed your name. That restraint reflects not weakness, but brotherhood, maturity, and recognition of your contribution to the liberation struggle of the party.p
President Hakainde Hichilema leads with a forgiving heart — a quality shaped by the suffering the UPND endured during years of opposition. The journey from persecution to government taught the movement the value of patience, loyalty, and unity. It is therefore important that your political posture continues to strengthen the unity of the party and not feed divisions that opponents may seek to exploit.
Hon. Gary Nkombo, your political destiny should not be reduced merely to the Mazabuka seat or independent ambitions. You have already walked that road and proved your worth to the people. Politics is not always about immediate positions; sometimes God removes a man from one door because a greater national assignment awaits him ahead.
Do not allow temporary political storms to define your permanent legacy. The political future belongs to leaders who understand timing, endurance, and strategic patience. Your silence today may become the foundation of a much bigger responsibility tomorrow.
Remain focused. Remain loyal to the vision you fought for. Continue standing with President Hakainde Hichilema and the UPND government as they work to stabilize and develop Mother Zambia. Those who truly understand politics know that no sacrifice made for a people-centered cause is ever forgotten.
The party has not thrown you away; rather, this season may simply be preparing you for the next political door. Great leaders are not destroyed by setbacks — they are refined by them.
May wisdom guide your next steps, and may your experience continue to inspire the younger generation of political leaders who must learn that loyalty, humility, and patience are pillars of lasting leadership.
Yours faithfully,
Lyambai K. Nyambe
Political Student