LUSAKA, Zambia – Citizens First (CF) President Harry Kalaba has broken his silence following the departure of his vice-presidential running mate Moses Mawere and senior politician Chishimba Kambwili, who have officially joined the Tonse Alliance.
In a statement issued on July 10, 2026, Kalaba said although the party would have preferred to continue working alongside the two leaders under the Citizens First banner, it respected their constitutional right to make their own political decisions.
Kalaba Respects Their Decision
Kalaba said Citizens First was founded on democratic principles, freedom of association and respect for individual political choices.
“While we would have preferred to continue this journey together under the Citizens First banner, we respect their decision and wish them well in their future political endeavours,” Kalaba said.
He thanked both Mawere and Kambwili for their contributions to the party and wished them success in their future political paths.
“We thank them for their contributions to our movement and release them with our blessings and best wishes.”
Citizens First Says Mission Remains Unchanged
Despite the high-profile departures, Kalaba insisted that Citizens First remains focused on its mission of providing principled leadership and offering practical solutions to Zambia’s challenges.
He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to:
Democracy
Integrity
Accountability
Transparency
Non-violence
Servant leadership
Fighting corruption
According to Kalaba, the recent political developments will not distract the party from its long-term vision.
Message to Party Members
Kalaba also thanked members of the Citizens First Orange Alliance, party officials, volunteers and supporters for remaining loyal during what has become a significant moment in the country’s political landscape.
He urged members to remain united and continue supporting the party’s objectives.
“Our resolve is stronger than ever, and together we shall continue working tirelessly towards a better Zambia for all,” he said.
Integrity Remains Citizens First’s Core Value
The former Foreign Affairs Minister reiterated that integrity would continue to define Citizens First as the country heads toward the 2026 General Elections.
He maintained that the party would not compromise on its principles of honesty, accountability and respect for the rule of law.
“Our position on integrity remains clear and uncompromising. Citizens First was built on a foundation of honesty, accountability and respect for the rule of law.”
Political Realignments Ahead of 2026 Elections
The move by Moses Mawere and Chishimba Kambwili to join the Tonse Alliance is among the latest political realignments taking place ahead of Zambia’s highly anticipated 2026 General Elections.
Political analysts say alliances and party defections are expected to continue as political parties position themselves for the polls.
Despite losing two prominent figures, Harry Kalaba has assured supporters that Citizens First remains committed to contesting the elections and pursuing its vision for Zambia.
The statement ends with Kalaba expressing confidence in the party’s future while invoking God’s blessings upon both Citizens First and the Republic of Zambia.
