…..showcasing strong internal democratic principles….
The Editor Zambia
The United Party for National Development (UPND) has demonstrated its prowess, strength, and national character by bringing together over 3,000 delegates at the 2026 general assembly, gathering at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre and other provincial centers across the country. 
The assembly marks a significant milestone for the ruling party in fulfilling the constitutional requirement under article 60, as well as serving as a vehicle for delivering national development.
President Hakainde Hichilema is going into today’s general conference unopposed as the party’s presidential candidate for the August general election. This is an indication of a clear sign of confidence within the ruling party.
UPND Alliance partners have described President Hichilema’s endorsement as a reflection of strong confidence and unity in the ruling party general membership.
The general conference is a defining moment symbolising strong internal democratic systems and the national appeal ahead of the August 13 general election.
This is contrary to opposition political parties who held general conferences on unnamed political platforms and without the knowledge of their members, the media, and the general public.
The ruling party’s general assembly is attended by over 3,000 delegates, observers, members of other political parties, the media, and members of civil society organisations.
State House communication specialist Clayson Hamasaka says the endorsement signalled a shared conviction within the party that President Hichilema remained the right leader to steer the country forward.
Hamasaka notes that Zambians were already witnessing tangible benefits of economic development under President Hichilema’s leadership, citing progress in the education sector where more children are now able to attend school due to the government’s free education policy.
Hamasaka emphasized that the policy was no longer a campaign promise but a lived reality for millions of families.
The State House official also pointed to increased Constituency Development Fund (CDF) allocations, stating that K40 million was now being disbursed annually to each constituency.
He added that decentralization reforms had ensured that resources were placed directly in the hands of communities, enabling them to address their own development priorities.
Hamasaka further said that the country had seen a notable decline in political violence, stressing that the fear, intimidation, and cadre-related unrest that previously characterized public life had significantly reduced.
Zambia has since become a safer environment where citizens can freely conduct their daily activities without fear.
However, Hamasaka acknowledged that government’s work is not yet complete, noting that reforms in key sectors such as agriculture, mining, energy, and education are still unfolding.
These initiatives have laid a strong foundation for future growth, with the full benefits expected to materialise in the coming years.
Hamasaka added that President Hichilema is entering the election period not only to defend his administration’s record but also to lead a broader movement aimed at shaping Zambia’s future.
Hamasaka called on all Zambians, regardless of their location, to rally behind the “Salt Sana Movement” in order to collectively drive national development and achieve shared prosperity.
