LUSAKA – The ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) has reportedly called upon opposition political parties in Zambia to utilise various media platforms for their campaign activities, rather than opting for street protests and demonstrations. This directive, emanating from the corridors of power, signals a governmental preference for organised and regulated political discourse over potentially disruptive public gatherings.

The call comes at a time when Zambia's political landscape is often characterised by spirited, and at times contentious, interactions between the ruling party and the opposition. Historically, both street protests and media campaigns have been integral components of political mobilisation in the country. The UPND's current stance appears to advocate for a greater emphasis on the latter, possibly aiming to foster a more stable and predictable environment for political expression.

Observers suggest that this advice from the UPND could be interpreted in multiple ways. On one hand, it aligns with democratic tenets that encourage the free flow of information and ideas through established channels. By urging opposition parties to engage with the public via television, radio, print, and digital media, the ruling party could be seen as promoting a mature and issue-based political debate. This approach could potentially reach a wider audience and allow for a more nuanced presentation of policy alternatives and critiques.

However, some critics might view this counsel as an attempt to manage or even restrict the forms of political expression available to the opposition. Street protests, while sometimes disruptive, are a fundamental right in many democracies and often serve as a powerful tool for expressing dissent, particularly when access to mainstream media is perceived as limited or biased. The effectiveness and reach of media platforms can also be contingent on factors such as cost, editorial policies, and public access to technology, which might not be equally available to all political actors.

For Zambia, a nation with a rich history of political activism, striking a balance between maintaining public order and safeguarding democratic freedoms remains a critical challenge. The UPND's recommendation underscores the ongoing debate about the most effective and appropriate methods for political campaigning and dissent in a developing democracy. It invites both the opposition and the public to consider the evolving role of media in shaping political narratives and influencing electoral outcomes, urging a move towards more constructive and less confrontational engagement.