Inherited Crisis



PF Official Says UPND Should Not Be Blamed for Economic Challenges Left by Previous Administration

By Francis Maingaila

Lusaka, Zambia24  - 17-07-2026 - Opposition Patriotic Front (PF) Secretary General for Administration Edwin Lifwekelo has defended the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), arguing that the party is not responsible for Zambia’s current economic hardships, which he attributes to challenges inherited from the previous PF administration.

Mr. Lifwekelo told Zambia24 in a statement that President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration has spent nearly five years addressing economic challenges left behind by the PF government, adding that the current cost of living pressures and unemployment levels are a result of past leadership failures.

He said he agreed with former Finance Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane’s observation that Zambia’s poverty and unemployment challenges were linked to the PF administration’s failure to invest for the future and introduce policies that could support long-term economic transformation.

Mr. Lifwekelo said the PF’s 10 years in government represented a missed opportunity to reposition Zambia’s economy, arguing that poor leadership and lack of clear policies contributed to the challenges the country is facing today.

He dismissed claims by PF members that the party could return to power and resolve Zambia’s economic challenges, describing such promises as political rhetoric.

Mr. Lifwekelo questioned the capacity of opposition figures, including Brian Mundubile and Makebi Zulu, to transform the economy, asking what development initiatives they delivered when they served in government positions.

He said Zambians were aware of President Hichilema’s achievements, citing increased Constituency Development Fund (CDF) allocations, recruitment of teachers and health workers, expansion of social cash transfers, student support programmes and efforts to clear pension arrears.

Mr. Lifwekelo urged citizens to support President Hichilema in the August 13, 2026 general elections, arguing that Zambia should continue on the current development path rather than return to what he described as “try and error” leadership.

“Zambians must vote for progress. Vote for Hakainde Hichilema on August 13,” he said.

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