The opposition Citizens First (CF) party has accused the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) of undermining democracy after the police denied its request to hold a public rally in Chipata City, Eastern Province, scheduled for November 8, 2025.
The decision comes barely a day after the Minister of Information and Media, Hon. Cornelius Mweetwa, assured the nation that opposition parties were free to interact with the electorate without interference, emphasizing it as their democratic right.
CF leader President Harry Kalaba described the move as yet another example of political intolerance, noting that this is the 20th rally permit denied to the party since its formation. Only four out of the 20 applications have been approved so far.
The opposition party believes the government who is panicking about the growing popularity of Citizens First “Nyuuuu Wave” slogan, which is quickly spreading all over the country, and they believe the message of citizen’s economic emancipation that the movement is saying has resonated strongly with Zambian people which has catapulted Citizens First into a credible player ahead of the August 2026 general elections.
“The ruling party has sensed defeat and is resorting to acts that weaken democratic values,” reads part of a CF statement. “If the UPND has truly delivered on its promises, there should be no reason to fear opposition mobilization.”
Citizens First has since called on the government to uphold constitutional principles and ensure a level political playing field for all parties.