The Editor Zambia
PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has successfully filed his nomination for the presidency of the United Party for National Development (UPND), in a process that has once again highlighted the ruling party’s structured, disciplined and democratic character ahead of its General Assembly on April 15.
The filing, conducted at Anderson Kambela Mazoka House in Lusaka, unfolded in an atmosphere of order, coordination, and celebration, with party members and officials adhering strictly to laid down procedures. 
Unlike the confusion and factional tensions that have become a hallmark of opposition politics, particularly within the Patriotic Front (PF), the UPND process proceeded without disruption, reflecting internal cohesion.
President Hichilema submitted his papers at 16:25 hours on the final day for nominations, comfortably within the deadline. His application followed the conclusion of party elections from grassroots to provincial level, demonstrating a clear and consistent adherence to the party’s constitutional roadmap.
An independent panel of civil society actors, led by Isaac Mwanza, verified the nomination process. The team confirmed that President Hichilema satisfied all provisions under Article 78 of the UPND constitution, reinforcing the transparency and credibility of the exercise.
Observers say the involvement of independent organisations in the verification process underscores the party’s commitment to accountability, a practice rarely seen in internal political processes elsewhere.
The UPND Electoral Committee Chairperson Likando Mufalali later confirmed that President Hichilema was the only candidate to file for the position, effectively positioning him for adoption at the forthcoming General Assembly.
His nomination received backing from multiple provinces, with Luapula Province leading the submission and several others supporting, pointing to widespread national consensus within party ranks.
This level of unity stands in sharp contrast to the continued infighting in the PF, where leadership disputes and rival factions have dominated headlines, often overshadowing policy direction and weakening organisational stability.
Political analysts note that while the opposition struggles to manage internal divisions, the UPND has focused on strengthening its systems and preparing for the national contest ahead.
The nomination process is widely viewed as a dress rehearsal for the August 13 general elections, offering a glimpse into how the ruling party intends to manage the larger electoral process. The calm and orderly conduct is expected to inspire confidence among supporters and undecided voters alike.
A defining moment during the proceedings came when President Hichilema led party members in observing a minute of silence in honour of the party’s founding leader, Anderson Mazoka, alongside early supporters and members who lost their lives in past political struggles.
The tribute served as a reminder of the party’s roots and its continued respect for the ideals upon which it was built, reinforcing a sense of continuity and shared purpose.
Addressing supporters, President Hichilema called for unity and active participation as the party prepares for the general elections.
“This process is part of a bigger journey. We must remain united and focused as we move towards August. Every member must take responsibility to ensure that we secure a strong mandate,” he said.
He emphasised the need to consolidate achievements made under his administration, including expanded access to education and increased development funding at constituency level.
Vice President Mutale Nalumango described the smooth process as a reflection of trust and confidence in the President’s leadership.
“This is what organised leadership looks like. The party has shown that it can manage its affairs in a transparent and credible manner. The results we are seeing across the country speak for themselves,” she said.
She added that the unity demonstrated within the party structures places it in a strong position heading into the national elections.
Former Vice President Nevers Mumba also commended the stability within the UPND, contrasting it with the uncertainty in opposition ranks.
“Zambia cannot afford to return to instability. What we are seeing here is a party that understands governance and values order,” he said.
Mumba urged voters to carefully assess the choices before them in August, noting that leadership should be anchored on credibility and consistency.
Support for President Hichilema was further reinforced by party structures across all ten provinces, as well as student leaders who praised government policies aimed at improving education and youth opportunities.
University student representatives pointed to the restoration of meal allowances, expansion of bursaries, and increased Constituency Development Fund (CDF) allocations as key interventions that have improved student welfare and access to education.
As the UPND prepares for its General Assembly, the successful and peaceful nomination process has sent a strong signal about the party’s readiness for the national stage.
In a political environment where internal conflicts have weakened some competitors, the ruling party’s orderly approach is being seen as both a demonstration of maturity and a strategic advantage.
With the August 13 elections drawing closer, the UPND appears to be refining its machinery through disciplined internal processes, using moments like these not only to select leaders but to test and showcase its preparedness for the country’s most important democratic exercise.
