… Zambia’s top and celebrated film producer; Lawrence Thompson, writes…
The UPND campaign launch was, in my view, exactly what one would expect from an incumbent government.
It projected confidence, organisation, and a clear sense of purpose. Whether one supports the party or not, it is difficult to deny that the event was professionally executed and demonstrated the advantages that often come with incumbency. 
Political campaigns are not won on a single rally or launch, but there are moments that can significantly shape public perception. I believe this was one of those moments. Some events simply “hit the nail on the head,” and this launch appears to have done just that.
Going forward, I think it will be considerably more difficult for the opposition to unseat the current government. The burden is now even greater on opposition parties to present not only criticism but also a compelling, credible, and practical alternative vision for Zambia.
Elections are ultimately decided by voters comparing competing ideas, leadership, and records.
Of course, the real campaign has only just begun. The opposition still has opportunities to persuade the electorate, and the government must continue convincing citizens that its promises and achievements deserve another mandate.
But if yesterday’s launch is any indication of the tone and strategy the UPND intends to pursue, it has certainly set a high benchmark.
