402 Views“On 13th, woke up at 01:00 hrs to go and vote” – Banda MANSA, LUAPULA PROVINCE, July 12, 2026 – “Whether they like it or not, they are going.” Those were the words of former Organized People’s Party (OPP) vice-presidential running mate Andyford Banda as he publicly endorsed Tonse Pamodzi Alliance-backed presidential candidate Brian […]

402 Views“On 13th, woke up at 01:00 hrs to go and vote” – Banda

Andyford Banda endorses Mundubile

MANSA, LUAPULA PROVINCE, July 12, 2026 – “Whether they like it or not, they are going.”

Those were the words of former Organized People’s Party (OPP) vice-presidential running mate Andyford Banda as he publicly endorsed Tonse Pamodzi Alliance-backed presidential candidate Brian Mundubile and his running mate Makebi Zulu during a mega campaign rally in Mansa on Sunday.

Banda, who recently stepped down as Dr. Brian Mushimba’s running mate, told thousands of supporters that the August 13 General Election would usher in a new government led by Mundubile.

“Whether they like it or not, they are going,” Banda declared in an apparent reference to the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), drawing loud cheers from the crowd.

He urged voters to turn out in large numbers on polling day, encouraging them to cast their ballots early.

“Wake up as early as possible and go and vote. Give Brian Mundubile and Makebi Zulu 100 percent support,” Banda told supporters.

“The economy has frozen”

Banda argued that Zambia’s economy needed a fresh start, saying the country required new leadership to revive economic activity and create opportunities for young people.

“The economy na freeze, the economy has frozen. We need to restart and start afresh. On the 13th, voters, especially the youths, don’t forget,” he said.

He expressed confidence that a Mundubile administration would focus on job creation, supporting businesses and expanding economic opportunities for ordinary Zambians.

Another endorsement for NRP-UP

Banda’s appearance at the Mansa rally comes only days after he withdrew as the Organized People’s Party’s vice-presidential running mate.

The OPP subsequently informed the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) of his decision and requested guidance on the legal process following his withdrawal.

His endorsement is the latest in a series of high-profile declarations of support for the Tonse Pamodzi Alliance presidential ticket, which has recently attracted backing from several politicians and former public officials.

The endorsement came as Mundubile concluded his campaign tour of Luapula Province, where he continued to promise what he describes as a “reset” of Zambia’s economy, improved governance, quality free education and expanded opportunities for farmers, businesses and young people.

With just over a month before the August 13 General Election, political campaigns have intensified across the country as parties make their final push to win over voters.