Movement For Democratic Change

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

“Stability is Just the Foundation; Prosperity is the Goal,” says Leonard Hikaumba as the UPND Alliance Unveils 2026 Job Creation Blueprint*

Reflecting on a unified front ahead of the August 13, 2026, general elections, Mr. Leonard Hikaumba, Vice President of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) and former President of the Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU), has issued a stirring call to action for Zambian voters to support President Hakainde Hichilema and all UPND Alliance candidates.

Speaking in Lusaka, Mr. Hikaumba, a veteran of the labour movement, endorsed the UPND Manifesto 2026, describing it as a "bridge from stability to prosperity." He emphasized that the current administration has successfully stabilized the economy and restored the rule of law, setting the stage for an aggressive economic transformation centered on jobs and innovation.

“We stand at a crossroads in our history. For the past few years, we have done the heavy lifting. We have stabilized the ship,” Mr. Hikaumba stated. “But we know that stability is not an end in itself; it is the foundation. Today, the UPND presents a bridge, a bridge from 'getting by' to 'getting ahead.' Our Manifesto is a blueprint for a Zambia where every citizen has the dignity of a paycheck and the power of a skill.”

Drawing on his extensive background in labour relations, Mr. Hikaumba highlighted the manifesto’s commitment to a private-sector-led job revolution. He assured that the UPND government will enter into a “sacred pact” with businesses across all sectors, from agriculture to mining, to create millions of new jobs.

“We are moving away from an economy of exporting raw materials to an economy of exporting Zambian talent and finished products,” Hikaumba noted. “When we talk about jobs, we mean decent jobs that can sustain a family, send a child to school, and build a home with the support of social security measures.”

Addressing the students and the youth, whom he called the “heartbeat of the Republic,” Mr. Hikaumba outlined a transformative education policy. He emphasized that under the 2026 Manifesto, the UPND Alliance commits to supporting over 100,000 students in universities and TEVET institutions through industry-linked programs.

“For too long, a degree or a certificate has been a ticket to a waiting room. That ends now,” Hikaumba declared. “This is our ‘Class-to-Career’ guarantee. Every student we support will be linked directly to a work placement, an internship, or an enterprise opportunity. We are not just giving you a scroll of paper; we are giving you a key to a boardroom.”

Mr. Hikaumba also touched on the establishment of the *Youth Enterprise Growth Fund*, designed to provide credit guarantees and blended finance to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). He stressed that the goal is to turn the "hustle" of young Zambians into formal, thriving industries.

In his closing remarks, Mr. Hikaumba urged the electorate to provide President Hakainde Hichilema and the UPND a fresh mandate at all levels of government, from Ward Councillors to the President, to ensure the seamless implementation of this vision.

“Politics is about choices,” Hikaumba concluded. “It is a choice between looking backward at what divided us, or looking forward at what can unite us. Let us choose growth. Let us choose jobs. Let us choose progress. On August 13, 2026, let us move Zambia Forward, Together.”

Ngoni Nation, We mourn with you!!!

ECONOMIC GAINS MUST BE PROTECTED: MDC CALLS FOR LEADERSHIP CONTINUITY UNDER PRESIDENT HICHILEMA AHEAD OF AUGUST ELECTIONS

​The Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), a proud member of the United Party for National Development (UPND) Alliance, has strongly urged the Zambian electorate to support and re-elect His Excellency, President Hakainde Hichilema, in the upcoming August 13 general elections to safeguard the country's historic economic recovery, job creation, and developmental milestones.

​Speaking in Lusaka, MDC Vice President Mr. Leonard Hikaumba, who brought to the political arena nearly 15 years of distinguished leadership as the former President of the Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU), emphasized that Zambia’s progress hangs on leadership continuity.

​Mr. Hikaumba noted that before the UPND Alliance took office, Zambia suffered under severe fiscal distress, characterized by an unsustainable national debt, skyrocketing living costs, and crippled public service delivery that severely strained the national treasury.

​"Zambia is firmly on a recovery path, and citizens are already experiencing the tangible benefits of these reforms right in their communities. This progress must be protected, and the only way to ensure it continues is by giving President Hichilema another mandate," Mr. Hikaumba stated.

​The MDC Vice President highlighted several key achievements of the current administration that warrant a second term:

​Fiscal Relief & Public Recruitment: The successful restructuring of the national debt has eased immense fiscal pressure, allowing the government to aggressively recruit essential workers in the critical health and education sectors.

​Grassroots Development: The unprecedented expansion and scaling up of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) has decentralized development, funding vital local infrastructure such as classrooms, community clinics, and roads.

​Social Protection: The landmark rollout of free education has provided massive financial relief to vulnerable families while significantly driving up school enrollment nationwide.

​Macroeconomic Stability: The economy has shown robust signs of health, driven by falling inflation, a stabilizing Kwacha, renewed international investor confidence, and aggressive growth in the mining sector.
​
​Demonstrating the selflessness and discipline that defined his long labor and political career, Mr. Hikaumba also addressed internal alliance dynamics following the UPND Alliance's decision to adopt Mr. Josphat Milambo as the parliamentary candidate for Mwembeshi West Constituency.

​Mr. Hikaumba announced that he has fully accepted the alliance's decision, choosing to place collective national interests above personal political ambition. He pledged his total, unwavering support to Mr. Milambo and all other alliance candidates to avoid fracturing the vote at the constituency level.

​"Our strength as an alliance lies entirely in our teamwork and shared purpose," Mr. Hikaumba explained. "Once candidates are officially adopted, it is the duty of every member to rally behind them. Internal competition must never overshadow our broader mission of delivering national development."

​The MDC Media Team joins Vice President Hikaumba in calling upon all alliance members, aspiring candidates who were not adopted, and general supporters across the country to remain highly disciplined, reject internal divisions, and focus entirely on mobilizing a decisive victory for President Hichilema and all alliance candidates on August 13.

​ISSUED BY:

Edmond Mbanga Miti.

Media Director;
Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) Secretariat
Lusaka, Zambia

It is with a profound sense of shock, deep sorrow, and a heavy heart that I have learned of the untimely passing of our dependable leader, brother, and the MDC Luapula Province Provincial Chairman, Mr. Gibson Musonda yesterday morning.

​On behalf of the MDC National Executive Committee, the entire party membership across Zambia, and indeed on my own behalf, I extend our deepest, most heartfelt condolences to the Musonda family, and our grief-stricken membership in Luapula Province.
​
​On a deeply personal level, Gibson’s passing is a devastating blow. He was not just a provincial chairman to me; he was a true comrade-in-arms and a dear friend. Together, we traversed the length and breadth of Luapula Province for many years, sharing long hours on the road, enduring the rigors of political struggle, and celebrating our triumphs together.

​I came to know him as a man of absolute integrity, unwavering loyalty, and boundless energy. His warmth and enduring spirit made the hardest journeys lighter. Losing him leaves a void that will be incredibly difficult to fill.
​
​The MDC has lost a giant and a gallant soldier of our movement. Mr. Musonda's contributions to the strength, visibility, and growth of our party are written in stone. He will be remembered as a phenomenal mobilizer and a fierce campaigner who knew how to connect with the grassroots.

​His exceptional leadership was most evident in Kawambwa, his home base, where his strategic mind and dedication delivered numerous political victories for our cause. He poured his heart and soul into the MDC, and his legacy of hard work will remain a guiding light for our party.
​
​During this dark and trying period, we stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the Musonda family. We pray that the Almighty God becomes their ultimate anchor, comforting them with a peace that surpasses all human understanding. To our MDC brothers and sisters in Luapula, let us honor Gibson’s memory by remaining united and strong, just as he would have wanted.

​Go well, my brother. Thank you for your tireless service, your loyalty, and your friendship. You fought a good fight, and your labor will never be forgotten.

​May the Soul of our Dearly Departed Provincial Chairman, Mr. Gibson Musonda, Rest in Eternal and Perfect Peace. MHSRIEP.

​Felix Mutati President, Movement for Democratic Change (MDC)

LUSAKA — The Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) has reaffirmed its commitment to democratic excellence and gender equality following the official launch of the high-level national Stakeholders’ Dialogue on Women’s Democratic Rights and Adoption Systems in Zambia.

​The prominent national event is being spearheaded by the Zambia Centre for Interparty Dialogue (ZCID) in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Deepening Democracy Program, the National Democratic Institute (NDI), the Swedish International Cooperation Agency (Sida), and the Women Representation Program.

​At the center of this historic convergence is Ambassador Joyce Musenge, who serves in the dual, highly influential roles of ZCID Board Chairperson and MDC Secretary General. Her leadership of the dialogue highlights the MDC’s prominent position in driving national political reform and inclusive governance as Zambia prepares for the 2026 General Elections.

​The national dialogue has brought together a diverse coalition of stakeholders, including political party leaders, civil society organizations, government institutions, media houses, faith-based organizations, and international cooperating partners.

​Speaking from the event, Ambassador Musenge emphasized that the dialogue comes at a critical juncture in Zambia's political trajectory, addressing persistent concerns regarding the underrepresentation of women in political leadership.

​The MDC media team catches up on the core pillars of the ongoing deliberations, which include:
​Strengthening Female Leadership: Creating viable, sustainable pathways for women’s active political participation and leadership.

​Ethical Party Adoptions: Promoting transparent, fair, and merit-based adoption systems within political parties to eliminate bias.

​Dismantling Barriers: Formulating decisive actions to address violence, intimidation, and systemic barriers affecting women in politics.

​Accountability in Governance: Enhancing accountability and advancing gender-responsive governance ahead of the 2026 General Elections.
​
​The MDC Media Team notes that having our Secretary General steer this national interparty platform underscores the party's foundational values of equity, justice, and democratic integrity.

The MDC has consistently advocated for a level playing field, and Ambassador Musenge’s dual role ensures that the party’s progressive values help shape the national roadmap toward 2026.

​As the dialogue continues, stakeholders are actively constructing practical implementation roadmaps, reinforcing monitoring mechanisms, and consolidating collective commitments toward a safer, more transparent, and inclusive democratic space.

​The MDC remains fully committed to adopting and implementing the progressive resolutions generated from this dialogue within its own party structures, setting the standard for a truly inclusive Zambia.

​Issued by:
The MDC Media Department
Lusaka, Zambia
​

The Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) has once again demonstrated political maturity, unshakable unity, and democratic resilience following the successful conclusion of our 2nd National Congress held in Lusaka.

​In a powerful show of confidence and solidarity, MDC President Felix C. Mutati has gone UNOPPOSED, receiving a resounding mandate from the party structures to continue steering the green movement forward!

​A Message of Humility, Gratitude, and Unity
​Taking to the podium to deliver his acceptance speech, President Mutati began with a profound moment of humility that moved the entire delegation. He openly apologized to the party membership for any shortfalls he may have had as a leader over the last five years, setting a standard for accountable and compassionate leadership.

​He extended his deepest gratitude to the party structures and the general membership for standing strong, keeping the party vibrant, and maintaining absolute unity.

​"We are together today because you have carried us through the years. For this, I am immensely grateful," President Mutati stated.

​He paid glowing tribute to Secretary General Amb. Joyce Musenge and Lusaka Province Chairman Blackson Lungu for their exceptional coordination, alongside a heartfelt thank you to all provincial leadership teams across the length and breadth of Zambia for keeping the MDC torch burning bright.

​Looking ahead to the upcoming general elections on August 13, 2026, President Mutati officially declared the MDC’s total endorsement of His Excellency, President Hakainde Hichilema

​He urged every single MDC member across Zambia to rally firmly behind President Hichilema’s transformative vision, citing the undeniable development recorded under the New Dawn administration.

​Key milestones highlighted include:

​The Free Education Policy: A revolutionary milestone that has brought close to three million children back into classrooms, securing the future of our nation.

​Decentralized Wealth via CDF: The massive, unprecedented increase of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) from a mere K1.6 million to a staggering K40 million, taking resource control directly to the communities.

​President Mutati further called on all MDC members to be ambassadors of peace, unity, and issue-based politics as the country heads into the campaign period.

​The congress successfully elected 30 dedicated leaders into the National Executive Committee (NEC). In accordance with the MDC Party Constitution, President Mutati is now expected to formally appoint these 30 elected members into their respective strategic portfolios.

​Among the political heavyweights and dynamic leaders elected into the NEC are:

​Leonard Hikaumba (Former MDC Vice President)

​Dr. Godfrey Bbalo (Former National Chairman)

​Amb. Joyce Musenge (Former Secretary General)

Rev. Mary Ngoma (Former Mobilization Chairperson)

Davies Chintala (Former Chairperson for Commerce and Trade)

​Edmond Miti (Media Director)

​Abiut Njobvu (Former National Treasurer)

​Blackson Lungu (Lusaka Province Chairman)

​Ozzious Banda (Renowned Creative and Comedian)

​Unwavering Alliance & Commitment to the People
​Echoing the President’s sentiments, MDC National Chairman Dr. Godfrey Bbalo expressed profound gratitude to President Hakainde Hichilema for his inclusive governance and alliance partnership.

He specifically thanked the Head of State for appointing MDC leaders into key cabinet portfolios, notably Hon. Felix Mutati as Minister of Technology and Science, Hon. Reuben Mtolo as Minister of Agriculture and Leonard Mbao as Minister for Northern Province.

​Dr. Bbalo reiterated that the MDC remains unreservedly committed to supporting President Hichilema because the party believes completely in his development agenda for a better Zambia.

​The MDC leaves this congress re-energized, united, and fully prepared to secure a resounding victory for the alliance come August 13!

​

The Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) is deeply saddened to announce the passing of our former Vice President for Administration, Ms. Shery Thole.

​To many of us, Shery was more than a leader; she was a guiding light, a dear friend, a mother and an elder sister whose contribution to our party and the nation of Zambia was immeasurable. She led with a rare combination of grace, integrity, and intellectual depth.

​Shery’s professional journey was a masterclass in dedication. She began her distinguished career at the Bank of Zambia, rising through the ranks to the level of Director.

Her transition to the private sector was equally impactful, where she served as:

1. ​Managing Director of Intermarket Banking

2. Corporation

3. ​Chairperson of the Bankers Association of Zambia (BAZ)

4. ​President of the Institute of Directors

​Because her expertise was so profound, she was called back to public service to serve the nation as Permanent Secretary, a role she held with the same excellence that defined her entire life.
​
​Shery Thole was an asset to the future, leaving behind a legacy of service that will inspire generations of Zambians. Her commitment to a better, more prosperous Zambia remained unwavering until the very end.

​As a party, we extend our deepest prayers and heartfelt condolences to her family and the entire MDC fraternity. We mourn with you, but we also celebrate a life exceptionally well-lived.

​May we find solace in the lives she touched and the standard of excellence she set for us all.

​Go well, Shery. Rest in Eternal Peace.

Former MDC Vice President Sherry Thole Dies