Socialist Party can’t win elections, that’s why I left – Nswima

LUSAKA – Evaristo Nswima, who previously served as the Socialist Party's Luapula Provincial chairperson for mobilization, has announced his resignation from the party, attributing his decision to a lack of confidence in its electoral prospects. Nswima's departure, a significant blow to the Socialist Party's grassroots efforts in a key region, suggests growing disillusionment among some of its cadres regarding its path to power. Speaking to the press, Nswima articulated his belief that the Socialist Party, despite its efforts, is fundamentally incapable of securing a victory in future general elections. This sentiment, if widespread, could pose a considerable challenge to the party's ambition to become a major political force in Zambia. His comments reflect a pragmatic, albeit critical, assessment of the party's organizational strength, public appeal, and strategic direction, particularly against the backdrop of Zambia's highly competitive political arena. Nswima's defection is not an isolated incident in Zambian politics, where movements between parties are relatively common, often influenced by perceived opportunities or frustrations. Such shifts frequently occur as elections draw closer, with individuals seeking alignment with parties they believe have a stronger chance of forming government or offering better political platforms. His move could potentially trigger further introspection within the Socialist Party, prompting a review of its strategies and internal cohesion, especially in provinces like Luapula where mobilization is crucial. The implications of Nswima's departure extend beyond the Socialist Party itself. It sheds light on the broader challenges faced by opposition parties in Zambia, many of whom struggle to consolidate support and present a united front against the ruling party. The perception of a party's electability is a critical factor for both its members and the electorate, and Nswima's public declaration could inadvertently reinforce doubt