NRPUP IS A SELLOUT PARTY AS ECZ DISTANCES ITSELF FROM THE CONTROVERSY
ISSUED BY:ARNOLD CHANDA CHILUFYA – ACC
NATIONAL MEDIA DIRECTOR
CITIZENS FIRST-CF PARTY
The National Restoration Party of Unity and Progress (NRPUP) has become a major disappointment to our nation’s democracy and the opposition fraternity at large. What is unfolding raises serious questions about political loyalty, accountability, transparency and the future of multiparty democracy in Zambia.
NRPUP was relatively unknown to many Zambians and had little political significance before it became associated with the TONSe Alliance, which benefited from the Patriotic Front (PF) structures and political support across the country. The alliance was led by President Brian Mundubile and his running mate, Hon. Makebi Zulu, both of whom were central figures in the alliance’s political campaign.However, the NRPUP, led by Hon. Ezra Tembo, which was used as the political vehicle for the TONSe Alliance, now finds itself at the centre of a controversy surrounding the allocation of Mixed-Member Proportional Representation (MPR) seats and its apparent political relationship with the ruling United Party for National Development. (UPND)
QUESTIONS OVER THE ALLOCATION OF MPR SEATS
How did the UPND end up benefiting from MPR seats that were expected to accommodate NRPUP representatives, including women and youths? This development raises legitimate questions that deserve clear and transparent answers.It is particularly concerning that the UPND and NRPUP were political rivals before the general elections. What changed so dramatically that seats associated with NRPUP’s representation could end up benefiting its former political rival?Zambians deserve to understand the circumstances surrounding this development. Political alliances and parliamentary arrangements must not undermine public confidence in the electoral process or compromise the representation of citizens.
ECZ’S EXPLANATION RAISES FURTHER QUESTIONS
In a letter attributed to the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), the Commission reportedly explained that NRPUP submitted a list containing eight names instead of the sixteen members allocated to the party, resulting in the remaining seats being allocated to the ruling UPND.While we acknowledge the explanation attributed to the ECZ, it does not, on its own, resolve the broader political questions surrounding this matter.If NRPUP was unable to fill all its allocated positions, Zambians deserve clarity on the legal framework, procedures and criteria used to determine the allocation of the remaining seats. It is also reasonable to ask whether other eligible political parties were considered in accordance with the applicable law.For instance, why was the Citizens First (CF) party, which emerged third among the participating political parties, not considered for the remaining representation.The ECZ must provide sufficient clarity to reassure the public that the process was conducted fairly, transparently and strictly in accordance with the Constitution of Zambia and the relevant electoral laws.
A THREAT TO EFFECTIVE PARLIAMENTARY OVERSIGHT
The events surrounding these seats have raised serious concerns about the strength and independence of the opposition in the National Assembly.Zambians are entitled to ask what kind of Parliament they should expect over the next five years if opposition representation is weakened by political arrangements that appear to favour the ruling party.A strong opposition is essential to democratic governance. It scrutinises government expenditure, questions public policy, holds those in power accountable and defends the Constitution. When opposition parties fail to provide effective oversight, the risk of unchecked executive power increases.Democracy does not thrive merely because elections are held. It thrives when elected representatives exercise their responsibilities independently, protect the interests of citizens and hold the government accountable without fear or favour.
A LESSON FOR THE OPPOSITION FRATERNITY
This controversy should serve as a wake-up call to the entire opposition fraternity. Political parties must make strategic decisions based on long-term national interests, institutional stability and the genuine aspirations of the Zambian people.The selection of a political vehicle for an alliance must never be treated as a minor decision. It requires careful consideration of the party’s national structures, leadership, credibility and commitment to democratic principles.Had the TONSe Alliance heeded calls to use the Citizens First (CF) party as its political vehicle, the current situation might have unfolded differently. While we cannot change the decisions made in the past, we can learn from them and build a stronger, more united and accountable opposition for the future.
CF CALLS FOR AN ACC INVESTIGATION
As Citizens First, we call upon the Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) to examine the circumstances surrounding the reported allocation of MPR seats to the UPND following NRPUP’s submission of fewer names than its reported allocation.We urge the Commission to establish whether there is any credible evidence of corruption, improper inducement, abuse of office or other unlawful conduct in connection with the matter. Any investigation must be evidence-based, impartial and conducted in accordance with the law.This call is not a declaration that corruption has occurred. Rather, it reflects the need to address public concerns through the appropriate institutions and establish the facts.The people of Zambia deserve answers.
Political representation must never be treated as a commodity to be exchanged behind closed doors. Every decision affecting parliamentary representation must be transparent, lawful and accountable to the electorate.
At present, the Citizens First (CF) party has two Members of Parliament, while the Zambia Must Prosper (ZMP) party has one Member of Parliament, according to our current understanding of the opposition representation under discussion.This situation underscores the importance of building a credible, principled and effective opposition capable of defending democratic institutions and representing the interests of ordinary Zambians.Citizens First remains committed to constitutionalism, accountability, transparency and the protection of multiparty democracy.
We believe that Zambia needs an opposition that places the nation above personal interests, political convenience and questionable arrangements.Democracy must not be sacrificed at the altar of political expediency. Zambia belongs to its people, and its democratic institutions must serve the people—not the interests of a few political actors.
We therefore call upon the ECZ to provide further clarity on the legal and procedural basis for the allocation of the disputed seats, and we urge all relevant institutions to ensure that the matter is addressed transparently and in accordance with the law.
ISSUED BY:ARNOLD CHANDA CHILUFYA – ACC
NATIONAL MEDIA DIRECTOR
CITIZENS FIRST-CF PARTY.