Former Republican Vice President Nevers Mumba has publicly addressed concerns surrounding his recent health scare and his absence during part of the UPND Alliance presidential nomination proceedings last week.
In a detailed statement issued on May 28, 2026, Dr. Mumba explained that he had been hospitalised after suddenly falling ill ahead of the nomination process, dismissing claims that his condition was linked to political developments within the alliance.
Nevers Mumba Explains Hospitalisation
According to Dr. Mumba, he woke up feeling seriously unwell on the Wednesday before the presidential nomination process and immediately arranged to seek medical attention.
He stated that his condition worsened upon arrival at the hospital, where he reportedly collapsed and lost consciousness before being stabilised by medical personnel.
The former vice president revealed that family members, church leaders, colleagues, and supporters later gathered at the hospital as he was admitted to Maina Soko Military Hospital.
Mumba Denies Political Rumours Over Collapse
Dr. Mumba strongly rejected social media claims suggesting that his illness or withdrawal from the nomination process was caused by the announcement of Zambia’s Republican Vice President as running mate.
He described the allegations as false, malicious, and misleading.
“The narrative being circulated by some political actors that I collapsed or became dizzy in reaction to that announcement is false,” he stated.
Mumba clarified that his participation in the nomination event had been based on medical advice and his belief that the programme would conclude within a manageable period.
However, he explained that the proceedings extended far longer than expected, forcing him to withdraw on the recommendation of doctors and family members to continue his recovery.
Nevers Mumba Reaffirms Support for President Hakainde Hichilema
Despite the controversy, Dr. Mumba reaffirmed his loyalty and support for Hakainde Hichilema and the UPND Alliance.
He stressed that his commitment to the alliance was not dependent on holding any government position.
“My support for the UPND Alliance and for President Hakainde Hichilema remains firm and unwavering,” he said.
Mumba also noted that the selection of the presidential ticket remains a constitutional responsibility of the President.
Calls for Issue-Based Politics in Zambia
In his statement, Dr. Mumba expressed concern over what he described as the growing trend of misinformation and political sensationalism in Zambia.
He urged political players to focus on:
Economic development
Job creation
Service delivery
National unity
Policy debates
rather than exploiting personal health matters for political gain.
“We cannot hope to build a stronger Zambia if public discourse is reduced to exploiting a man’s illness for political mileage,” he stated.
Nevers Mumba Thanks Zambians for Support
The former vice president concluded by thanking his family, church members, colleagues in the UPND Alliance, and members of the public for their prayers and support during his recovery.
He assured the nation that he is recovering well and remains committed to serving Zambia.
