LUSAKA, ZAMBIA – As Zambia marks Youth Day, Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) President Antonio Mwanza has issued a defining challenge to the nation’s young population: transition from being tools of political mobilization to becoming the architects of national governance.
In a stirring address timed with the lead-up to the 2026 General Elections, Mwanza emphasized that while the independence generation laid Zambia’s foundation, the responsibility for its next chapter rests solely with the youth.
The DPP leader took aim at the historical trend of “political exploitation,” where young people are mobilized primarily to fill rallies, chant slogans, and act as “defenders” of older politicians, only to be excluded when decision-making roles are distributed.
“This must change,” Mwanza declared. “Young people must refuse to be used only as tools of elections. They must rise to become leaders of the nation. The future cannot be built by spectators.”
Mwanza outlined a three-pillar vision for the youth as they approach the 2026 polls:
Rise Above Division: Rejecting ethnic fragmentation and political violence.
Reject Manipulation: Moving past the “politics of patronage” toward a commitment to service.
Lead with Ideas: Prioritizing integrity and genuine policy solutions over rhetoric.
In a direct call to action, the DPP President invited young leaders to move beyond the ballot box and onto the ballot paper.
He encouraged the youth to utilize the DPP platform to contest for various elective positions, including Councillors, Council Chairpersons, Mayors, and Members of Parliament.
“The future of our country will not be decided for you; it must be shaped by you,” Mwanza concluded.
The statement marks a strategic shift for the DPP as it seeks to position itself as the primary vehicle for youth representation in the upcoming electoral cycle.
