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The Zambia Wake-Up Party has expressed concern that the conference being organized by the Center for Policy and Dialogue (CPD) appears to be steering toward endorsing a unified government without adequately representing diverse political viewpoints.
Party Secretary General, Benson Katongo, said the party was willing to participate, but warned that the process seemed predetermined, overlooking the distinct policies, manifestos, and ideologies of various political parties.
“Let’s work together towards a united Zambia, with a clear vision and representation of all voices,” Katongo said in a statement issued in Lusaka on Tuesday.
He added that the party welcomed the initiative, acknowledging the importance of unity in driving Zambia’s development.
“However, we are compelled to seek clarity on the Council’s composition and the conference’s objectives,” he said.
Katongo noted that Zambia had experienced numerous dialogues in the past, many of which yielded little tangible results.
“We question whether this effort will be another instance of unproductive discussions,” he said.
He further urged the Council of Elders, led by retired Judge Justice Lombe Chibesakunda, to provide a clear roadmap for the proposed conference to ensure it becomes a genuine platform for dialogue rather than a rubber-stamping exercise.
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Katongo emphasized that transparency and inclusivity were key to meaningful discussions before, during, and after the conference.
Retired Judge, Justice Chibesakunda who is Chairperson of Ethical Leadership, Democracy and Development (CEELDD), said the National Conference of Democratic Change Advocates will be held from February this year.
She said the gathering would, for the first time, bring together multiple opposition political parties, democratic change movements, civic leaders, and youth and women’s formations.
“The conference will also include faith and traditional leaders, as well as independent citizens, to jointly shape and endorse a unified government-in-waiting for Zambia,” Chibesakunda said.
She described the initiative as a decisive step toward offering the nation a credible, principled, and prepared alternative government.
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