By Brian Matambo | Sandton, South Africa

Presidential candidate Makebi Zulu addressed the nation today, 30 December 2025, calling on opposition political parties to come together ahead of the 2026 general election.

Makebi Zulu said the call for unity is coming from the Zambian people, including the church, civil society, the general membership and structures of the Patriotic Front, and citizens at large who, he said, are longing for hope, truth, and a united Zambia. He said this demand places a responsibility on the opposition to choose unity over division and service over self interest.

He said the opposition is ready to unite both within individual parties and with fellow opposition parties to build what he described as a strong and credible alternative that reflects the will and aspirations of the people. Makebi Zulu urged opposition leaders and supporters to stand together as one opposition family and as one people in order to deliver what he described as the freedom Zambians are seeking.

Makebi Zulu warned against efforts to divide the opposition and cautioned leaders to resist any temptations that could compromise integrity, including government sponsored manipulation or inducements. He emphasized that loyalty should remain with the people of Zambia and not with those who fear a politically awakened citizenry.

Addressing fellow opposition candidates directly, Makebi Zulu called for unity of purpose, urging them to speak one language, choose one leader, and run a united course toward the August 2026 general election. He described the forthcoming election as a decisive moment that will determine the course of the country and said the opposition cannot afford to miss the opportunity.

He concluded by saying the call for unity is not driven by personal ambition but by a shared duty to serve the Zambian people, restore faith in leadership, and renew hope across the nation.