UPND warns members against premature campaigns in areas with elected representatives

The United Party for National Development (UPND) has cautioned members aspiring for various electoral offices to refrain from engaging in early campaigns, particularly in areas where the ruling party already has elected representatives.

UPND Secretary-General, Batuke Imenda, in a statement issued on Sunday, said no party member or aspiring candidate was permitted to campaign in constituencies, wards, or areas where the UPND has a duly elected Member of Parliament, Mayor, Council Chairperson, or Councillor.

“This principle equally applies in areas where the UPND is working in collaboration with Independent MPs, as well as constituencies or wards represented by some opposition MPs who are constructively working with the ruling party,” Imenda said.

He reminded members of the standing resolution of the National Management Committee (NMC), adopted and published in 2020, which prohibits premature internal campaigns.

According to Imenda, the directive is intended to safeguard party unity, strengthen cohesion, and allow elected officials to focus on delivering the UPND’s development agenda without unnecessary disruption.

“We wish to emphasize that any aspiring candidate found in breach of this directive will face punitive measures in accordance with the UPND’s disciplinary regulations,” he warned.

Imenda further directed media houses not to quote aspiring candidates or party members on campaign-related matters in the name of the UPND, stressing that the party had not issued any official position regarding individual aspirations.

He added that the UPND remained a disciplined, democratic, and forward-looking party.

“All members and aspiring candidates are therefore guided accordingly to respect the NMC resolution and contribute positively towards the party’s collective mission of delivering development to the people of Zambia,” Imenda said.

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