“ I will run on the legacy of ECL …. If by accident I win “- Mundubile.

Lusaka – The political landscape in Zambia is abuzz following a contentious statement attributed to Patriotic Front (PF) presidential aspirant, Miles Sampa, who reportedly declared his intention to campaign on the 'legacy of Edgar Lungu' should he secure the party's nomination. This pronouncement, delivered with a seemingly casual 'if by accident I win' addendum, has ignited a firestorm of speculation and criticism regarding the potential direction of the former ruling party. Sampa's statement has been widely interpreted by political analysts and commentators as a direct endorsement of the policies and governance style of the previous administration. For many Zambians, the 'legacy of ECL' evokes a period marked by significant economic challenges and governance issues. Among the most frequently cited concerns are the protracted delays in paying council workers, a recurring problem that saw many local government employees go without salaries for periods ranging from seven to fifteen months, severely impacting their livelihoods and the delivery of essential services. Furthermore, the mention of the ECL legacy immediately brings to mind the turbulent saga surrounding Konkola Copper Mines (KCM). Under the previous government, KCM, a vital national asset, was embroiled in a protracted legal and operational dispute, leading to its placement under provisional liquidation. This move, which saw the government take control from Vedanta Resources, was met with mixed reactions and ultimately contributed to uncertainty in the mining sector, a cornerstone of Zambia's economy. Critics fear that a return to such policies could destabilize investor confidence and hinder economic growth. Observers suggest that by aligning himself so closely with the past, Sampa risks alienating a significant portion of the electorate that is yearning for fresh leadership and a departure from the perceived missteps of the past. While some within the PF old guard might view this as a strategic move t