…..As The Former President Says UPND’s Rigging Tactics Failed
Former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu has congratulated the Tonse Alliance on its resounding victory in the Petauke Central Constituency by-election. In a statement posted on his Facebook page, Lungu alleged that the UPND had attempted to rig the elections, but their tactics were thwarted by the Tonse Alliance’s implementation of “Plan B”.
Lungu praised the people of Petauke Central for standing firm against the UPND’s attempts to manipulate the electoral process.
“The people of Petauke Central have spoken. They have declared, in one voice, that when mingalato are silenced, the will of the people cannot be bought, threatened, or stolen,” he wrote.
The former President also thanked the churches, civil society organizations, and the international community for their support in ensuring a transparent and democratic process. Lungu’s statement comes as the Tonse Alliance celebrates its victory in Petauke Central, with Honourable Simon Banda being elected as the new Member of Parliament.
Lungu also used his statement to call on opposition parties to unite and work together towards regime change in 2026. “Let us work together. Tonse Alliance was launched on 7th November, 2024, exactly 90 days today by parties, civil society and advocates that desired to create a united opposition front with a common goal of ensuring regime change in 2026,” he urged.
The Tonse Alliance has been gaining momentum in recent months, with several opposition parties joining forces to challenge the ruling UPND. Lungu’s call for unity among opposition parties is seen as a significant step towards building a strong and united front against the UPND in the 2026 general elections.