PF Disowns ‘ECL-PF Movement,’ Called Masqueraders



Central Committee declares breakaway grouping illegal and reaffirms PF as anchor party of the Tonse Alliance

By Francis Maingaila ♥️ 
Lusaka, Zambia24 (26-01-2026)
The Patriotic Front (PF) Central Committee has formally disowned the so-called “ECL-PF Movement,” calling its promoters masqueraders, and declared the breakaway grouping illegal, while reaffirming the PF’s position as the anchor party of the Tonse Alliance. The party also warned that members who associate with the illegal Tonse risk immediate expulsion.

Acting PF President Given Lubinda told journalists at a media briefing this evening that the PF Central Committee held an urgent meeting earlier today, during which members unanimously resolved to distance the party from the purported movement and to take firm disciplinary action against anyone found associating with it.

In resolutions adopted at the Central Committee meeting held on Monday, January 26, 2026, the PF said the “ECL-PF Movement” was being promoted by rogue and selfish elements seeking to divide the party and undermine the legacy of the late former President Michael Chilufya Sata, the founding leader of the PF.

Lubinda emphasized that any association with the purported extension of the PF, or with any entity operating outside the legitimate Tonse Alliance, is illegal and punishable under the PF Constitution. 

He noted that the recognised Tonse Alliance remains under the chairmanship of the PF Acting President, as appointed by the late former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu.

“For avoidance of doubt, any member of the PF who associates with the breakaway illegal Tonse shall be deemed to have exited their membership of the Patriotic Front,” Lubinda said, stressing that the Central Committee will enforce all disciplinary measures as provided for in the party constitution.

The PF also reaffirmed its decision of March 20, 2025, by late former President Lungu to dismiss Dr. Zumani Zimba from the Office of the Former President.

The Central Committee further highlighted actions by certain alliance members who have purported to announce the expulsion of the PF from the Tonse Alliance, describing such moves as inconsistent with the agreed Rules of Engagement and governing documents.

Lubinda said the PF is currently conducting a comprehensive review of these developments and is awaiting formal communication from alliance partners before announcing its final position.

As part of efforts to strengthen the Tonse Alliance, the PF resolved to recommend welcoming back well-meaning members, readmitting former members who still subscribe to the 14 Rules of Engagement, and admitting new applicants in line with these rules.

The party also opened applications for candidates for the 2026 general elections, including councillors, council chairpersons, mayors, and Members of Parliament, with further guidance to be issued by the PF elections chairperson.

Additionally, the Central Committee approved the holding of a General Conference in February 2026 to address organisational, political, and electoral matters ahead of the polls.

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