By Brian Matambo | 9 February 2026

The Patriotic Front has raised alarm over what it describes as a well financed and coordinated effort to infiltrate and dismantle its party structures across the country, calling on members to remain vigilant and disciplined as the party prepares for a critical period of reorganisation.

In a statement issued by Acting Secretary General Celestine Mukandila, the party said hostile political forces are operating under the name of the Patriotic Front or its alliance formations, with the aim of luring, buying off, and destabilising party leaders and structures at district and constituency level.

Mukandila warned members to guard against what he termed calculated attacks by political enemies seeking to weaken the PF from within, stressing that unity and alertness are essential at this stage of the party’s renewal.

The party also announced the appointment of James Mwila as Acting District Chairperson for Kitwe District, as part of ongoing efforts to stabilise and strengthen its structures on the Copperbelt.

In terms of internal control, the PF directed that in any instance where a senior district or constituency official defects or announces intentions to do so, the Vice Chairperson must immediately assume control of the structure and report to the Party Secretariat for further guidance.

Beyond the immediate security concerns, the developments have reignited debate within PF circles about the need for firm discipline and a clear break from the unruly conduct that has, at times, characterised the party’s past. Political observers note that if the PF is to credibly present itself as a government-in-waiting, the conduct of its members and leaders must reflect maturity, order, and progressiveness.

There is growing expectation among supporters that the PF should consciously model a different political culture, one anchored in discipline, respect for structures, and ethical leadership. This, many argue, is essential if the party is to reclaim its identity as a pro-poor, pro-family, and pro-life political movement, values that remain highly desirable and resonant with a large section of the Zambian electorate.

As the PF navigates internal threats and external pressure, the challenge before it is not only to defend its structures, but to demonstrate that it has evolved into a modern, principled, and socially grounded party capable of offering stable and compassionate leadership to the nation.