By Staff Writer 

THOUSANDS of enthusiastic supporters today turned up at Kasala Primary School Grounds in Petauke District for what turned out to be one of the biggest political gatherings in the area, as NRPUP presidential candidate Brian Mundubile and his running mate Makebi Zulu addressed a packed rally.

The massive crowd began gathering from various parts of the district as early as 11:30 hours, with the venue already filled to capacity by 12:30 hours. 

Despite the long wait, supporters remained patient and energized as they eagerly anticipated the arrival of the opposition leaders.

Excitement swept across the grounds when Mr. Mundubile and Mr. Zulu finally arrived and took to the stage around 16:30 hours, receiving thunderous cheers from the thousands in attendance.

Addressing the crowd, Mr. Mundubile outlined what he described as a farmer-centered development agenda aimed at revitalizing agriculture and improving rural livelihoods.

He pledged that under his administration, farmers would receive agricultural inputs on time and at affordable prices.

“We will ensure that farmers access inputs on time and at a cost they can afford,” Mr. Mundubile said, drawing applause from the largely farming community.

He further promised that farmers supplying maize through the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) would be paid promptly, saying delayed payments had negatively affected agricultural productivity and household incomes.

Mr. Mundubile also committed his government to facilitating reliable markets for agricultural produce, ensuring that farmers benefit from their hard work.

In a bid to strengthen irrigation and livestock farming, the NRPUP leader said his administration would utilize the Zambia National Service (ZNS) to construct dams across farming communities.

He explained that increased water infrastructure would promote year-round farming through irrigation while supporting livestock production, particularly in drought-prone areas.

On social protection programmes, Mr. Mundubile said his government would review the Cash for Work initiative to ensure that all deserving citizens benefit regardless of political affiliation.

“The programme must serve the people fairly and not be perceived as benefiting only members of the ruling party,” he said.

Mr. Mundubile also sought to assure citizens that his administration would govern inclusively and without vengeance.

“We shall take care of every citizen, including those who may have persecuted us politically. Our focus will be on national unity and development,” he said.

Turning to youth issues, Mr. Mundubile pledged to empower young people through economic opportunities rather than expose them to dangerous situations.

He said his government would support youths interested in mining activities by creating a safer and more structured environment for participation in the sector.

Mr. Mundubile said he would not use the military to kill young people involved in mining activities, but would instead deploy national service personnel and other state resources toward productive development programmes. He said the military and ZNS would play a greater role in promoting agriculture by helping to construct dams and other infrastructure needed to support farming communities.

The NRPUP candidate further promised to complete the stadium project in Petauke that was initiated by former area Member of Parliament Emmanuel Jay Banda.

Earlier, Mr. Zulu told the gathering that the opposition alliance was formed in response to calls from citizens seeking change and national liberation.

He said he and other political leaders had resolved to unite behind Mr. Mundubile’s candidature in order to provide what they believe is an alternative leadership for Zambia.

Mr. Zulu urged voters to carefully assess the performance of the current administration before casting their ballots.

He criticized the UPND government over what he described as unfulfilled campaign promises, particularly regarding the cost and delivery of farming inputs.

Addressing the predominantly farming audience, Mr. Zulu reminded residents of promises made concerning fertilizer distribution and affordability, arguing that many farmers had not experienced the improvements they had anticipated.

He maintained that a Mundubile-led government would prioritize timely delivery of agricultural inputs and improved support for farmers.

Mr. Zulu also questioned what he termed inconsistencies in the ruling party’s political messaging, particularly regarding former Patriotic Front members who have since joined the UPND.

The rally concluded amid chants and celebrations from supporters, with many describing the gathering as a clear demonstration of growing political interest in the district ahead of the forthcoming elections.

Ends…