Chabinga, Ng’ona defend Sampa’s Patriotic Front presidency despite his own concession

Mafinga Member of Parliament, Robert Chabinga and Patriotic Front (PF) Faction Secretary General, Morgan Ng’ona have insisted before the Lusaka High Court that Matero MP, Miles Sampa was legitimately elected as PF president, and therefore, all his actions remained valid and binding.

In their submission, the duo disputed claims that Sampa’s leadership was illegal. They argued that the extraordinary conference that ushered him into office was properly convened and sanctioned by the party’s general conference.

“The actions, decisions and appointments of the first defendant are lawful and binding by virtue of him holding the office of party president,” the two submitted.

Their stance sharply contrasted with Sampa’s own concession in court on Thursday, when he admitted that his election was not conducted in line with the PF constitution and regulations.

The matter arose after seven PF Members of Parliament, led by Mporokoso MP, Brian Mundubile, petitioned the court.

They argued that Sampa’s election on October 24, 2023, contravened several provisions of the party’s constitution, regulations, electoral regulations, and Article 60 (2) of the Republican Constitution.

The MPs are seeking a declaration that Sampa’s election was null and void ab initio, and an order quashing it in its entirety. They want the court to invalidate all actions, appointments, and decisions made by him since October 24.

They are asking the court to quash the changes made to the PF’s records kept by the Registrar of Societies after October 24 and restore the register to its previous status.

The petitioners also want a permanent injunction restraining Sampa from presenting himself as PF president.

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