Against Nostalgia Politics

Hikaumba urges Zambians to reject a return to failed governance models and safeguard economic reforms

By Francis Maingaila ♥️ 

Lusaka, Zambia24  – (22-06-2026) -  Movement for Democratic Change (MDC) Vice President Leonard Hikaumba has called on Zambians to reject what he described as politics of entitlement, warning that the country risks reversing hard-won economic and governance gains if it returns to outdated leadership models.

Hikaumba urged citizens to carefully assess the country’s political direction ahead of the 2026 General Election, cautioning against leaders, he said were seeking to revive governance practices associated with previous administrations.

He said Zambia’s recent history should serve as a reminder of the consequences of poor economic management, citing constitutional disputes, economic difficulties, and job losses experienced during the Patriotic Front (PF) administration.

According to Hikaumba, decisions made during that period adversely affected businesses and livelihoods, particularly on the Copperbelt, where disruptions in the mining sector contributed to significant job losses.

The MDC vice president said some political actors were attempting to persuade voters to support a return to what he described as a failed governance model, despite its shortcomings.

"We can not afford to entrust our future to those who lack a vision for transformation and whose only compass is the ghost of past failures," Hikaumba said.

He also criticised the political philosophy commonly referred to as "Ubomba mwibala alya mwibala," which translates to "one should eat where they work," describing it as a culture that fosters entitlement and undermines accountability in public service.

According to Hikaumba, national resources should be managed for the benefit of all citizens rather than for the advantage of a privileged few.

He further called on voters to scrutinise the records of individuals seeking public office, particularly with regard to integrity and stewardship in the management of public resources.

At the same time, Hikaumba praised President Hakainde Hichilema’s leadership, describing him as a reform-oriented leader focused on rebuilding the economy and strengthening the rule of law.

He said the United Party for National Development (UPND) administration had demonstrated a commitment to development and responsible governance, adding that the country’s economic recovery efforts should be protected.

Hikaumba urged Zambians to support policies aimed at economic transformation and national development rather than being swayed by nostalgic appeals to the past.

"We must choose the path of progress over the shadows of mismanagement," he said.

Hikaumba is the Vice President of the Movement for Democratic Change and a former president of the Zambia Congress of Trade Unions (ZCTU).