By Brian Matambo

After years of turmoil, delays, and government interference, the Patriotic Front (PF) has finally announced that it will hold a General Conference this month to elect its President and members of the Central Committee. The move comes after the party’s Central Committee met on Sunday, chaired by Acting President Given Lubinda and Acting Secretary General Hon. Brenda Nyirenda-Chisopa.

The decision signals a potential turning point for the former ruling party, which has been in political limbo since the failed 2023 General Conference where several presidential aspirants paid nomination fees but no credible election was ever held. Some of those who took part in that process, including Ambassador Emmanuel Mwamba, have since gone into exile, alleging persecution by the UPND government.

For much of the past two years, the PF has operated under what many political observers describe as state-induced paralysis. The Registrar of Societies, an office under the Ministry of Home Affairs, has been accused of deliberately frustrating the party’s efforts to hold a legitimate conference and update its leadership records. The prolonged refusal to recognise PF office bearers effectively held the opposition party hostage, leaving it unable to function fully while the ruling establishment consolidated control.

Despite these setbacks, the PF leadership has now declared that the upcoming General Conference will be held within the next 30 days. The meeting will be both physical and virtual, and those wishing to contest for the presidency are now free to apply upon payment of the requisite amounts. The process, according to officials, will be open, transparent, and in line with the PF constitution.

This decision also offers an opportunity to resolve the confusion that has persisted between rival factions, particularly those aligned to Miles Sampa and Robert Chabinga. By opening the race to all in good standing, the party hopes to restore internal legitimacy and close one of the most painful chapters in its history.

After years of arrests, exile, and deliberate obstruction, this General Conference represents more than just a leadership contest. It is a test of whether Zambia can still allow opposition parties to function freely, without interference from the state. Every Zambian, regardless of political affiliation, should respect this process for the sake of the country’s democracy.

If the Patriotic Front can hold a credible and peaceful conference, it will not only reaffirm its resilience but also strengthen Zambia’s democratic credentials. What remains is for the government, the Registrar of Societies, and all interested parties to step back and let the people’s will within the PF prevail.