PF Suffers Major Setback

Matero councillor Lee Mukupa defects to UPND, pledges to mobilise support and strengthen ruling party structures in the constituency

By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, Zambia — April 11, 2026

The Patriotic Front (PF) has suffered a major setback in Matero following the defection of one of its most influential councillors to the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), a development that further exposes growing cracks within the former ruling party’s structures.

Lee Mukupa of Muchinga Ward 32 said when he crossed over to the UPND that his decision to abandon the PF was driven by what he described as a need to align with a political organisation grounded in unity, discipline, and structured leadership.

He stated that over time, he had observed stronger coordination and inclusiveness within the UPND, in sharp contrast to what he implied were challenges within his former party.

Mukupa said his departure from the PF reflects deeper frustrations among grassroots leaders who feel disconnected from the party’s direction and leadership approach.

Having served as councillor since 2011, he said his experience on the ground made it clear that effective leadership requires organisation, consistency, and a genuine commitment to the people.

“This is not just a personal decision—it reflects what many are seeing and experiencing. People want leadership that works, leadership that listens, and leadership that delivers,” Mukupa said.

He added that remaining in a system that, in his view, lacks cohesion and clear direction would have limited his ability to effectively serve the people of Matero.

Mukupa has since pledged to mobilise massive support for the UPND in the constituency, declaring his intention to decisively weaken the PF’s presence at grassroots level and reposition the ruling party as the dominant political force in the area.

“I am ready to work and ensure that the UPND grows stronger here. The people are ready for organised and focused leadership,” he said.

He further declared that he will “paint Matero Constituency red,” signalling an aggressive mobilisation campaign aimed at shifting political loyalty away from the PF.

The councillor emphasised that his long-standing relationship with residents gives him a strategic advantage in influencing political direction.

He added that the people of Matero are increasingly demanding tangible development rather than political rhetoric.

“I have been with the people for years. I understand their frustrations, and they want results—not confusion or internal wrangles,” he said.

Mukupa also committed himself to working within UPND structures, stating that discipline and adherence to systems are key to delivering meaningful development.

He expressed confidence that the ruling party will secure an overwhelming victory in the upcoming elections.

He explained that his focus will be on ensuring that support at grassroots level translates into actual votes.

Meanwhile, UPND Lusaka Province Chairperson Obvious Mwaliteta said Mukupa’s defection is a clear indication that the PF is steadily losing relevance and grip, particularly at community level.

Mwaliteta said the move demonstrates that leaders are increasingly abandoning what he described as disorganised and ineffective political structures in favour of a system that prioritises governance and development.

“This is what happens when a party fails to maintain order and direction. People begin to leave because they want to be part of something functional,” Mwaliteta said.

He stressed that leadership is not accidental but requires discipline and adherence to established processes.

He qas of the view that failure to follow such principles often results in instability and poor governance.

Mwaliteta further took a swipe at the PF’s past leadership, suggesting that a lack of preparation and disregard for systems contributed to governance failures and the challenges faced by some former officials.

“Leadership is not by chance. When systems are ignored, consequences follow—and we have seen that,” he said.

He advised the opposition to accept its current position and focus on rebuilding rather than clinging to past influence.

“The PF must face reality. The political landscape has changed, and they need to reorganise instead of pretending all is well,” Mwaliteta said.

He also reiterated that the UPND remains open to individuals willing to contribute positively, regardless of their political background.

He noted that the party values unity and national development above partisan divisions.

“We are building a broad and inclusive movement. Those who are ready to work for the people are welcome,” he said.

The defection comes amid increasing political realignments ahead of the 2026 general elections, with signs that the PF is struggling to retain key figures while the UPND continues to consolidate its position at grassroots level.