By Cindy Mulomba
About 1,700 members from various opposition political parties in LUSAKA have defected to the ruling United Party for National Development -UPND.
Receiving the defectors in Chawama, UPND Secretary General, BATUKE IMENDA, said the growing number of people joining the party reflects the effects of the UPND Government’s development agenda, citing free education and the prevailing peace and stability in the country.
Mr. IMENDA said President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA’s message of peace and national unity continues to resonate with citizens, prompting more people to support the ruling party’s vision.
He urged party members to fully integrate the new entrants into UPND structures and called on long-serving members to ensure the defectors feel welcome.
Meanwhile, UPND National Youth Chairperson, GILBERT LISWANISO, appealed to party members to work closely with the new members, citing the need for unity and teamwork in strengthening the party.
UPND Lusaka Province Chairperson, OBVIOUS MWALITETA, described the event as a show of peace, unity, forgiveness and reconciliation, saying UPND is a party that treats all members equally.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, former PF member, INNOCENT KALIMANSHI, asked for forgiveness for past differences and called for cooperation going forward.
And Citizens First Chawama Ward Two Chairperson, TEDDY LUBINDA, said he joined UPND after being impressed by the visible development delivered by the current Government.
ZNBC
