Oppose policies, not the presidency says Chanda

United, Prosperous and Peaceful Zambia (UPPZ) leader Charles Chanda has urged the August 13, 2026 presidential candidates to always draw a clear line between opposing government policies and attacking the office of the President.

Chanda, the UPND Alliance member linked the approach to political discipline and leadership maturity, arguing that opposing policy was part of democratic debate, but insults undermine institutions.

In an interview with Zambia Monitor, Chanda explained that UPPZ members were taught to challenge ideas that harmed citizens while maintaining respect for constitutional authority such as the Office of the President.

“Have never taught my followers to be enemies of the government but to be enemies of policies that are retrogressive. If you look at UPPZ members you will never hear them insult the president because that’s the kind of teaching I did,” Chanda said.

According to Chanda, the UPPZ belief was rooted in the understanding that strong leadership requires a strong heart to make tough decisions without personalizing political disagreements and insulting those in authority.

He noted that despite his disqualification from the 2026 presidential race by Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), on the basis of bankruptcy, UPPZ structures remained active.

“We have councillors who have stood on UPPZ. We have Members of Parliament that have stood.” Chanda said.

He stated that the party’s presidential votes would now be directed elsewhere, and that he had moved across the country to mobilize members.

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