The Decline in President Hakainde Hichilema’s Popularity Began Long Ago- Michael Mulusa

The political landscape in Zambia has been a subject of intense scrutiny, particularly concerning the perceived popularity of its leaders. According to Michael Mulusa, a keen observer of Zambian politics, the narrative that President Hakainde Hichilema's public support has only recently begun to falter is fundamentally flawed. Mulusa posits that the erosion of the President's popularity was already evident as early as the beginning of 2023, a period marked by significant political manoeuvres and shifting allegiances within the country's political class. Mulusa recounts an incident from early 2023 where he was approached to assist in mobilising support for a politician contemplating defection. This anecdote serves as a crucial indicator, suggesting that even then, there was a discernible undercurrent of dissatisfaction and strategic repositioning among political figures, which often reflects broader public sentiment. Such defections, whether from the ruling party to the opposition or vice-versa, are not merely isolated incidents but often signal a deeper malaise or a calculated response to the political climate and the perceived strength or weakness of the incumbent administration. The early signs of discontent, as highlighted by Mulusa, were likely fueled by a confluence of factors that have since become more pronounced. Economic hardships, including the rising cost of living, fuel prices, and the depreciation of the Kwacha, began to bite hard into the pockets of ordinary Zambians. While the government has consistently pointed to global economic pressures and inherited debt as primary causes, the public's patience often wears thin when daily struggles intensify. These economic realities, coupled with unfulfilled campaign promises, would have naturally started to chip away at the initial goodwill enjoyed by the UPND government. Furthermore, governance issues, perceived slow pace of reforms, and concerns over the fight against corruption – an area where the UPND ha