Muhabi Lungu accuses Hichilema of demeaning opposition with ‘criminals and thieves’ tag

Zambia We Want Party secretary general Muhabi Lungu has criticised President Hakainde Hichilema, accusing him of using abusive language against political opponents during campaigns ahead of the August 13 general election. Speaking on The BM8 Program, Lungu, whose party is part of…

Zambia We Want Party secretary general Muhabi Lungu has criticised President Hakainde Hichilema, accusing him of using abusive language against political opponents during campaigns ahead of the August 13 general election.

Speaking on The BM8 Program, Lungu, whose party is part of the Tonse-Pamodzi Alliance led by Brian Mundubile, alleged that the President has continued to portray opposition leaders as “criminals and thieves,” saying such language demeans political opponents instead of promoting issue-based campaigns.

Lungu also defended Brian Mundubile and his running mate, Makebi Zulu, arguing that they cannot be held entirely responsible for the shortcomings of the former Patriotic Front administration because both served only as provincial ministers. He said criticism directed at the pair over the previous government’s record is therefore misplaced.

He further criticised President Hichilema’s references to Mundubile and Zulu as “little boys,” describing the remarks as disrespectful. Lungu said he was encouraged that the two opposition leaders had not responded in similar fashion, which he said demonstrated political maturity.

Lungu reiterated concerns he has previously raised over the President’s public statements, including remarks suggesting he had faced more hatred than any of his predecessors. He has argued that leaders should avoid language that could be interpreted as divisive regardless of political affiliation.

Turning to policy, Lungu said a Tonse-Pamodzi Alliance government would prioritise reducing the cost of living, addressing Zambia’s housing deficit and strengthening the country’s macroeconomic fundamentals. He said these were the issues that should dominate the election campaign rather than personal attacks and political insults.

He also repeated his call for politicians across the political divide to avoid statements that could inflame tensions or be interpreted as encouraging division, warning that inflammatory rhetoric risks undermining peaceful elections.

His remarks come as campaigns intensify ahead of the August 13 polls, with church organisations, electoral authorities and civil society groups continuing to urge political parties to conduct peaceful, issue-based campaigns.

Lungu said the Zambia We Want Party’s contribution to the Tonse-Pamodzi Alliance is centred on policy proposals focused on improving livelihoods, expanding access to housing and strengthening the economy as voters prepare to cast their ballots.