SOCIALIST Party president Fred M’membe says Zambia’s growing number of presidential candidates is not a problem in itself, but noted that many citizens are calling for opposition unity because they desperately want political change.
Dr M’membe said Zambia’s multi-party democracy was achieved through years of struggle, and citizens should not be discouraged by the large number of political parties participating in elections.
Speaking during an appearance on Millennium TV on Wednesday, Dr M’membe explained that the country’s democratic system was built to allow different political voices and leadership alternatives to compete freely.
“There is absolutely nothing wrong with having 25 or even 30 presidential candidates. Zambians fought against the one-party state in 1990 and 1991 because they wanted democracy and political freedom,” he said.
However, the Socialist Party leader observed that the current political climate has increased public pressure on opposition parties to work together ahead of the 2026 general elections.
He noted that although opposition groups have managed to defeat ruling parties in the past without alliances, today’s voters strongly believe that cooperation among opposition leaders could improve the chances of forming government.
“People are looking for change, and many citizens believe opposition unity is necessary if that change is to happen,” said Dr M’membe.
He further criticised some opposition figures for placing personal ambitions above the needs of ordinary Zambians.
“The unfortunate thing is that very few opposition leaders are genuinely thinking about the people. Many are concentrating on their own interests, political positions, and survival instead of addressing the real problems affecting citizens,” he said.
Dr M’membe stressed that meaningful unity should be built on shared principles, policies, and commitment to improving people’s lives rather than political convenience.
He added that leaders must pay attention to the economic hardships facing citizens, including rising living costs, unemployment, and widespread poverty.
According to Dr M’membe, Zambians are searching for trustworthy leadership capable of restoring hope, strengthening the economy, and promoting accountable governance.
He maintained that opposition political parties will only gain public confidence if they prioritise the welfare of the people over individual political ambitions.
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