Lusaka, Zambia – The Patriotic Front (PF), Zambia’s largest opposition party, has plunged deeper into crisis following a bitter public exchange between rival factions. Acting party president Hon. Robert Chabinga has forcefully rejected attempts by expelled member Miles Sampa to dismiss several PF Members of Parliament, calling the move “an illegal power grab by someone no longer recognized by the party.”
The controversy stems from Sampa’s recent announcement expelling multiple MPs – a decision Chabinga immediately nullified in an April 1 statement, arguing that Sampa lost all authority when the party expelled him months earlier. Legal experts note the situation remains complicated by ongoing court cases, including a constitutional challenge filed by PF Secretary General Morgan Ng’ona regarding Parliament’s failure to recognize Sampa’s removal.
“This isn’t just about internal party discipline – it’s a fundamental test of Zambia’s democratic institutions,” explains political analyst Dr. Mwila Chikwanda of the University of Zambia. “When competing factions both claim to legitimately control an opposition party with 60 parliamentary seats, it creates uncertainty that affects governance.”
The power struggle reflects deeper divisions within the former ruling party, which has struggled to reorganize since its 2021 electoral defeat. Chabinga’s faction positions itself as reformers seeking to rebuild the PF as a policy-driven opposition, while critics accuse Sampa’s group of attempting an unconstitutional takeover.
Observers warn the infighting could not only weaken the PF’s ability to hold government accountable but also damage Zambia’s multiparty democracy. “A strong opposition is essential, especially with tough economic reforms underway,” notes economist Ellen Banda. “This distraction comes at the worst possible time.”
With the Constitutional Court yet to rule on the leadership dispute, the crisis leaves Zambia’s political future uncertain. As ordinary PF members grow increasingly frustrated, pressure mounts for an urgent resolution before the party’s divisions become irreparable.
Full Statement Below
PRESS STATEMENT BY HON. ROBERT CHABINGA, ACTING PF PRESIDENT AND LEADER OF OPPOSITION
I wish to categorically dismiss the purported expulsions of PF Members of Parliament announced by Mr. Miles Sampa. Let it be clear that these actions, lacking any legitimate authority, are nothing more than a desperate attempt by an expelled member to assert control; a control that, by all rights, he no longer possesses.
Mr. Sampa, having already been expelled from the party, has no locus standi to dictate or expel anyone else. It is regrettable that he chooses to engage in actions that betray the very values of unity and discipline he claims to uphold. I call on him to reflect and have a sense of shame for these regrettable actions.
Furthermore, Mr. Sampa’s actions border on contempt, as they are sub judice to matters currently before the Constitutional Court, among them where PF Secretary General Mr. Morgan Ng’ona has sued the Speaker of the National Assembly and the Attorney General for their failure to act on Mr. Sampa’s expulsion. He must therefore be advised not to bite what he cannot chew.
We wish to place on record that while other brother probably thought the former ruling party was for sale to the highest bidder, we are working hard to ensure the PF focuses on championing a developmental agenda and providing alternatives to the party in power. The PF we seek to build is one that is a vehicle for positive energy as a proposition of new ideas to advance this country’s development agenda.
The PF remains committed to genuine dialogue, reconciliation, and unity, and we will not be swayed by such illegitimate measures. The voices of the people, represented by duly elected and appointed members, must continue to be heard without interference from those who no longer serve the party’s interests. PF is an open church, and we remain ready to forge links with progressive forces in the nation.
Hon. Robert Chabinga
Acting Patriotic Front (PF) President and Leader of Opposition in Parliament
1st April 2024
