68 ViewsFormer Local Government and Rural Development Minister and ex-Mazabuka Central MP Gary Nkombo has rejected accusations made against him by President Hakainde Hichilema at a rally in Mazabuka on Thursday afternoon. Nkombo said he is within his rights to contest the parliamentary seat as an independent candidate under Article 51 of the Constitution of […]

68 Views

President Hichilema

Former Local Government and Rural Development Minister and ex-Mazabuka Central MP Gary Nkombo has rejected accusations made against him by President Hakainde Hichilema at a rally in Mazabuka on Thursday afternoon.

Nkombo said he is within his rights to contest the parliamentary seat as an independent candidate under Article 51 of the Constitution of Zambia, which provides for independent candidatures.

According to Diamond TV, he also denied the President’s claim that he is working with National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity leader Brian Mundubile, linking it to the candle symbol on his campaign materials. Nkombo explained that the symbol was not his choice, but was assigned to him by the Electoral Commission of Zambia.

On the other allegations raised by the President, Nkombo said he would not respond, describing them as abusive and false. He noted that he was one of those who endured harassment and assaults during the Patriotic Front government while campaigning for President Hichilema.

Nkombo has since called on his supporters to stay focused on the campaign and to work hard, emphasizing that he is no longer a member of the UPND.

During the same rally, President Hichilema alleged that Nkombo was collaborating with Mundubile and accused him of failing to improve road infrastructure during his close to 20 years as Mazabuka Central MP.

The President further claimed that Nkombo contributed to the late Anderson Mazoka’s inability to win previous elections, among other accusations.