President Hichilema welcomes new members to UPND

LUSAKA – President Hakainde Hichilema on Wednesday presided over a significant political event, welcoming approximately 140 members from the main opposition Patriotic Front (PF) who have formally defected to the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND). This mass defection includes three sitting Members of Parliament (MPs), five council chairpersons, and a substantial contingent of 69 councillors, marking a notable realignment within Zambia's political landscape. The defection ceremony, held at an undisclosed location, saw President Hichilema personally receive the new members, emphasizing the UPND's commitment to national unity and inclusive governance. While the names of the defecting MPs were not immediately released, their move represents a considerable blow to the PF, which has been grappling with internal divisions and leadership challenges since its ouster from power in 2021. The influx of experienced legislators and local government officials is expected to strengthen the UPND's majority in Parliament and reinforce its grassroots presence across various constituencies. Political analysts suggest that such defections are not uncommon in Zambian politics, particularly after a change of government. Parties in power often attract members from the opposition seeking political relevance, opportunities, or alignment with the perceived winning side. For the UPND, these new members bring not only additional numbers but also potentially valuable insights into opposition strategies and local community dynamics, which could prove advantageous in future elections and policy implementation. Conversely, the Patriotic Front faces an uphill battle in maintaining its cohesion and influence. The loss of three MPs, along with numerous local government representatives, underscores the challenges the party is experiencing in retaining its cadre. This development could further demoralize its remaining members and complicate its efforts to rebuild and present a formid