USE OF LUNGU’S VIDEOS IN CAMPAIGNS MORALLY WRONG, SUMAILI ADVISES TOONSE

LUSAKA – Former Minister of National Guidance and Religious Affairs, Reverend Godfridah Sumaili, has issued a stern admonition to the Toonse Pamodzi Alliance, cautioning them against the perceived moral impropriety of incorporating videos of former President Edgar Lungu into their ongoing political campaigns. The counsel from the seasoned politician and clergywoman underscores the intricate ethical considerations that often intertwine with political strategies in Zambia, particularly concerning the legacy and influence of past leaders. Reverend Sumaili, who served under President Lungu's administration, suggested that relying on the imagery of a former head of state could be seen as an attempt to leverage past affiliations rather than presenting a fresh vision for the future. Her statement, while concise, carries significant weight given her previous portfolio, which often touched upon matters of public morality and national values. The Toonse Pamodzi Alliance, a significant opposition grouping, has recently emerged from a merger between the Tonse Alliance and the PF Pamodzi Alliance, aiming to consolidate opposition forces ahead of the 2026 general elections. The political landscape in Zambia is currently marked by intense maneuvering as various parties and alliances position themselves for the upcoming polls. The use of campaign materials, especially those featuring prominent figures, is a common but often scrutinized practice. Sumaili's intervention highlights a debate within the political sphere about the appropriate use of historical figures in contemporary campaigns. Critics often argue that such tactics can either be seen as a legitimate homage or, conversely, as a cynical attempt to exploit nostalgia or lingering support without offering substantive new policy directions. For the Toonse Pamodzi Alliance, this advice presents a strategic dilemma. While former President Lungu still commands a loyal following among certain segments of the electorate, particu