We shall determine who forms government, says Harry Kalaba’s Citizens First

LUSAKA – The Citizens First (CF) party has moved swiftly to reassure its supporters and the Zambian electorate that the recent withdrawal of its presidential running mate, Mr. Moses Mawere, will not derail the presidential aspirations of its leader, Mr. Harry Kalaba. The party leadership, in a statement issued from its Lusaka headquarters, emphasized that Mr. Kalaba's candidature remains firmly on track, asserting CF's pivotal role in the forthcoming general elections. Mr. Mawere's unexpected decision to step down has undoubtedly created a ripple in the political landscape, prompting questions about the party's stability and preparedness. However, CF officials have sought to downplay the impact, framing it as an internal matter that has been addressed without compromising their electoral strategy. "While we acknowledge Mr. Maw Mawere's decision, we want to assure our members and the nation that President Kalaba's commitment to lead this country remains unwavering," stated a party spokesperson, who chose to remain anonymous given the sensitivity of the matter. "Our focus is firmly on the ballot, and we are confident in our ability to present a compelling alternative to the Zambian people." The party's bold declaration that it "shall determine who forms government" underscores its ambition to emerge as a significant third force, potentially holding the balance of power in a closely contested election. This stance reflects a growing trend in Zambian politics where smaller parties, while not always frontrunners, can play crucial roles in coalition building or by drawing votes away from major contenders, thereby influencing the final outcome. For CF, this means positioning itself as an indispensable partner for any party hoping to secure a parliamentary majority or presidential victory. Political analysts suggest that while such statements are common pre-election rhetoric, CF's ability to live up to this claim will depend heavily on its grassroots mobilization, campai