boycott propaganda
THE Patriotic Front (PF) has refuted social media reports suggesting that it plans to boycott the 2026 general election, asserting that the former ruling party is not retreating, but rising, like the proverbial Phoenix from the ashes.
In a statement issued by Edwin Lifwekelo, the media director, the party declared: “We are not boycotting 2026. PF remains committed despite desperate propaganda. Contrary to misinformation circulating online, the PF is not considering withdrawing from the 2026 general elections.”
The party has rejected suggestions that ongoing legal challenges faced by its presidential candidate, former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, would force it out of the electoral race.
“These baseless claims reflect the desperation of our political opponents,” the statement added, emphasizing that public momentum continues to grow around the PF and its coalition partner, the Tonse Alliance, as a credible alternative to the current UPND-led government. Our Plan B, as earlier communicated by our Chairman, President Lungu is in full motion. We remain focused, united, and ready to mount a formidable challenge in 2026,” Mr Lifwekelo said.
Mr Lifwekelo alleged that government intelligence had confirmed the Tonse Alliance is on course to form the next government, an outcome the current administration is allegedly trying to disrupt through misinformation and psychological tactics.
“Fake price reductions and targeted disinformation campaigns are evidence of a regime increasingly rattled by the people’s shift in support,” he said.
Refuting comparisons to UNIP’s 1996 boycott, Mr Lifwekelo stated; “We are not UNIP. We are not retreating. We are rising. The 2026 elections are our moment. Ilelanga (it is showing), the future is bright.”
Mr Lifwekelo also claimed that President Hakainde Hichilema’s fear of his predecessor, former President Lungu had become increasingly evident by his continued attacks and slander against the formee head of State
“Even President Lungu’s shadow sends panic into State House,” the statement read, pointing to the alleged overreach by law enforcement during Mr. Lungu’s public engagements as evidence of the administration’s anxiety,” Mr Lifwekelo said.
He urged the Zambians to ignore the “lies” circulating online and remain focused on the party’s vision for change. “The Patriotic Front and Tonse Alliance are progresing towards progress moving forward, fully committed to participating in and winning the 2026 election. No amount of propaganda or suppressed intelligence can stop the will of the Zambian people,” he said.
