Miles Sampa Endorses President Hakainde Hichilema

LUSAKA – In a significant political development, former Matero Member of Parliament, Miles Sampa, has thrown his weight behind President Hakainde Hichilema, publicly endorsing the Head of State at a press conference held in Lusaka. This move by the outspoken politician, known for his dynamic and often controversial political trajectory, marks a notable shift in allegiances and could have ramifications for the opposition Patriotic Front (PF). During his address, Mr. Sampa did not mince words when criticizing his former colleagues within the PF. He articulated a strong sense of grievance, claiming he was unjustly denied the opportunity to lead the party, a position he had actively contested. This sentiment echoes long-standing internal divisions and power struggles that have plagued the PF since the passing of its founder, Michael Sata, and more recently, Edgar Lungu's departure from active politics. Sampa's assertion of being 'robbed' of the leadership suggests a deep-seated frustration with the party's internal democratic processes and selection mechanisms. His endorsement of President Hichilema and the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) is particularly noteworthy given his past as a prominent figure within the PF. Such a cross-party endorsement from a politician with a considerable grassroots following, particularly in Lusaka's Matero constituency, could bolster the UPND's appeal and potentially chip away at the PF's traditional support base. It also provides the UPND with a narrative of attracting disillusioned opposition figures, reinforcing their image as a broad-based movement. Political analysts suggest that Sampa's decision could be a strategic maneuver, either born out of genuine conviction for President Hichilema's agenda or a calculated move to remain politically relevant in a shifting landscape. His history of political fluidity, having previously aligned with various factions, adds another layer of complexity to this endorsement. The