By Burnett Munthali
Zambia’s Patriotic Front (PF) acting president Given Lubinda has carried out a sweeping overhaul of the party’s leadership, removing several senior figures from the central committee.
He has dismissed former secretary general Davies Mwila from all party structures.
He has also dropped acting secretary general Brenda Nyirenda.
Party chairperson Emmanuel Mpankanta has likewise been relieved of his position.
In addition to the national-level removals, Mr Lubinda has dismissed four provincial chairpersons.
Northern Province chairperson Chomba Chipili has been removed.
Lusaka Province chairperson Christopher Shakafuswa has also been shown the door.
North-Western Province chairperson Abyud Kawangu has been dropped.
Western Province chairperson Tombi Tombi has equally been stripped of his role.
The changes follow growing internal tensions within the PF as the party continues to grapple with deep factional divisions.
Mr Lubinda announced the reshuffle in a statement issued on Friday.
In the same communication, he confirmed fresh appointments to reinforce his leadership team.
Matero Member of Parliament Miles Sampa has been appointed to a senior role within the party, signalling a strategic repositioning of the PF hierarchy.
Mr Lubinda’s decision marks one of the most dramatic leadership restructurings since the PF lost power.
The changes are expected to trigger further debate within the rank and file of a party already struggling with issues of legitimacy and unity.
The development comes just days before the PF is scheduled to convene major internal meetings.
Questions now arise over how the new appointments will be received by various factions.
Observers say the overhaul may either consolidate Mr Lubinda’s authority or spark renewed conflict within the troubled party.
As the PF continues to navigate its internal battles, the latest shake-up serves as a reminder of the high stakes involved in its ongoing leadership struggles.
