A defection wave has hit Matero Constituency, with more than 50 members from the Tonse Alliance defecting to the UPND during a three-day campaign engagement across Matero.
The engagement brought together Matero aspiring Member of Parliament Alexander Mumba Sakala, UPND Mayoral Aspirant Chitambala Mwewa, aspiring councillor Patrick Sibeso, together with other candidates from Matero.
The latest defections were recorded yesterday in Matero Ward 32, where residents gathered to welcome the leaders and receive party regalia.
The defectors joined in singing the popular βAletakaβ song by Yo Maps, with the message βopposition ku farm,β as they explained their decision to join the UPND.
The defectors said they wanted to be part of a political vehicle with direction and a clear vision for the future.
βWe needed a vehicle to take us further. We cannot remain stuck with leaders who lack vision and leaders with multiple party representations. We want to be part of something organised,β one of the defectors said.
Matero aspiring Member of Parliament Alexander Mumba Sakala said his connection with the constituency goes beyond politics, explaining that he grew up in Matero and was nurtured by the people of the community.
βI grew up here. Most of you know me. My business, my stay here and my journey of becoming who I am today was nurtured by the people of Matero. This community made me, and I want to give back,β Sakala said.
He said his desire is to contribute to the development of Matero while supporting the vision of President Hakainde Hichilema.
UPND Mayoral Aspirant Chitambala Mwewa said his decision to aspire for the mayoral position was influenced by President Hichilemaβs leadership and his stance against political violence and cadreism after taking office in 2021.
He said the Presidentβs commitment to peace showed that politics can be conducted without violence.
βWe are one Zambia. Let us hold hands for a better Matero and a clean Lusaka,β Chitambala said.
The defectors also praised the organisation of the UPND campaign structure, highlighting the role of campaign coordinator Nawa Nawa in mobilising and coordinating activities on the ground.
They said the well-coordinated mobilisation gave them confidence that they had joined a political movement with direction, structure, and a clear vision.
The engagement concluded with calls for unity and support for leaders who share a vision of a better Matero and a clean Lusaka.