By Brian Matambo | Lusaka

On Saturday November 15, a group of UPND cadres descended on the Patriotic Front Secretariat in Lusaka, destroying property and injuring several people in an attack that has stirred political tension across the country. The incident carried echoes of the Mapatizya formula, the infamous violent tactic associated with the UPND during the 2006 election cycle, raising fresh concerns as Zambia edges toward the decisive 2026 general elections.

The PF leadership expressed outrage, describing the attack as a disturbing sign of the ruling party’s return to violent cader culture. According to senior officials, the assault was led by Robert Chabinga and carried out by individuals allegedly aligned to the UPND. The situation has revived fears that political thuggery is resurfacing in a nation that constitutionally upholds multiparty democracy.

PF Media Director Edwin Lifwekelo criticised the incident as a grave insult to Zambia’s Christian values and a threat to political stability. He challenged law enforcement agencies to act swiftly and decisively, warning that allowing such violence to go unchecked would only embolden further lawlessness. In his remarks, Lifwekelo insisted that the PF will not retaliate but will not allow its members to be attacked with impunity.

He further argued that Zambia cannot afford to normalise violence as a political tool. The party has maintained that the attack reflects a worrying trend within the ruling establishment, especially after public admissions by UPND insiders that caderlism has resurfaced in the party.

Amid the tension, former Lands Minister Jean Kapata has urged PF supporters to resist the temptation to strike back. Kapata emphasised that revenge would only derail the momentum toward 2026, telling supporters that discipline and focus are the most powerful responses in moments of political provocation. Her appeal is seen as an effort to keep the PF’s grassroots steady while the party pursues justice through lawful means.

The attack has renewed debate about the direction Zambia is taking under the current administration and the fragility of the peace that citizens have long taken pride in. As investigations continue, all eyes are now on the authorities to see whether action will be taken against those involved and whether political leaders will work to prevent similar incidents.

For now, the PF is calling for accountability, Kapata is calling for restraint, and the nation is waiting to see how those in power will respond as the country steps closer to the 2026 polls.