Chief Mumena toasts President Hichilema’s victory

North-western Provincial Council of Chiefs Chairperson, Chief Mumena has congratulated President Hakainde Hichilema and the United Party for National Development (UPND) on winning the 2026 general elections. Speaking during a media briefing in Kalumbila District, Chief Mumena…

North-western Provincial Council of Chiefs Chairperson, Chief Mumena has congratulated President Hakainde Hichilema and the United Party for National Development (UPND) on winning the 2026 general elections.

Speaking during a media briefing in Kalumbila District, Chief Mumena expressed gratitude for the peaceful manner in which the elections were conducted, describing them as among the most peaceful elections the country has witnessed.

Chief Mumena said although there were a few isolated incidents of differences, these could be addressed collectively as a nation.

He commended the peace that characterised the electoral process and called for continued investment in peace, dialogue and national unity.

The traditional leader also commended all political parties and political players who participated in the elections, saying their participation was essential to the growth of democracy.

“For those who took part, political parties and political players, whether as individual parties or as alliances, we are grateful for aspiring to lead this great nation,” Chief Mumena said.

He further congratulated the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) for the manner in which it conducted the electoral process, saying the successful elections were an indication that Zambia’s democracy continues to grow.

“For those elected, the election is over. We also want to congratulate the Electoral Commission of Zambia for the manner in which they conducted their business leading to the successful succession. At least we can see that our democracy is growing,” he said.

Chief Mumena urged all elected leaders, from Members of Parliament to councillors, to focus on delivering their mandate, pursue dialogue and address areas requiring improvement.

“Many hearts were broken, but we can work together to heal and move on as a nation. Pursue dialogue, peace and unity, and show leadership so that those that are led should be able to say we have leaders in place,” he said.

Chief Mumena stressed that effective leadership requires followers, urging elected leaders to remain connected to the people they serve.

“If you have no following, then you are not a leader. So as you pursue and move with your programmes, always look behind and see whether your followers are still with you, lest you continue on a journey alone. Success is shown by the leadership following that you have,” he said.

The traditional leader also congratulated newly elected Lumwana Member of Parliament, Mathews Mashimamgo, urging him to continue working with the team that supported his campaign and remember their contribution.

Chief Mumena also welcomed the increased number of independent candidates elected to various positions, saying they had a responsibility to serve the people who voted for them.

“Those that are coming as independents, we are very grateful. This is the only time Zambia has seen so many independents. As much as you are independent, remember that people voted for you ,so you are not alone. You are answerable to the people,” he said.

He said all elected leaders had a responsibility to work towards growing the economy and developing the country.

“Above all, let us grow the economy, let us grow the nation,” Chief Mumena said.