UPND Consultant Mark Simuuwe Criticizes Opposition and Calls for Constructive Politics
By A Correspondent | Lusaka, December 26, 2024 — Speaking in a live interview with Prime TV, UPND consultant Mark Simuuwe offered a scathing critique of Zambia’s opposition landscape and dismissed recent claims of militarization ahead of the 2026 general elections. Simuuwe urged the opposition to focus on substance over falsehoods, emphasizing that Zambia’s democratic maturity leaves no room for talk of militancy.
“We don’t need a militia to win elections,” Simuuwe stated emphatically. “Zambia has passed that stage. Citizens make decisions through the ballot. It’s as simple as that.” He criticized what he described as “alien language” reminiscent of unstable regions, arguing that Zambia must remain focused on constructive, issue-based political discourse.
Simuuwe also highlighted what he sees as the fundamental weakness of the opposition. “Right now, we have no formidable opposition in the country. If you want to know how strong the opposition is, look at where independent and opposition MPs tilt in their conversations. Today, even MPs who stood on a PF ticket seem to have lost faith in their own party. What does that tell you?”
He dismissed recent statements by opposition figure Fred M’membe, who had alluded to military strategies in politics, calling them unrealistic and rooted in falsehoods. “M’membe came fifth in the last election. Historically, no opposition leader who placed fifth has ever formed government in Zambia, or even in Africa. This is political fantasy,” Simuuwe said.
The consultant further argued that leadership starts with managing elected representatives, something he believes M’membe lacks. “From Independence, no president has ever formed government without an MP. Even Michael Sata began with MPs because managing Parliament shows you have the capacity to govern,” he explained.
Simuuwe urged the opposition to prioritize substantive issues that resonate with voters. “We should focus on promises that will improve the lives of Zambians, not pettiness, falsehoods, or militant rhetoric. Our democracy deserves better.”
His remarks underline a call for a shift away from said divisive and impractical political posturing toward a focus on meaningful, voter-centered politics. As Zambia moves closer to the 2026 elections, Simuuwe’s critique signals UPND’s intent to maintain a narrative grounded in democratic integrity.
Mr Mmembe was still to comment over the allegations at the time of writing. – ZimEye