Speaking in a recent interview, Bwalya stated plainly; “I would like to be the next President of Zambia, and I hope I will be.” His comments come amid rising speculation around his political intentions following his alliance with the opposition Tonse Alliance.
When asked about his earlier remarks supporting a collective leadership within the alliance, Bwalya clarified that collaboration does not rule out ambition. “When you join an alliance, you commit to working with others towards a shared goal. If the group decides I’m the right person to lead, I’ll take that responsibility. But the nation must come first.”
Bwalya also addressed growing speculation around former President Edgar Lungu’s role in the alliance. He confirmed that Lungu, who had previously stepped away from active politics, has re-entered the fray in response to what Bwalya described as political persecution of his family and associates.
A former Patriotic Front member himself, Bwalya said he was expelled from the party due to disagreements over Lungu’s eligibility to run for another term. Still, he insisted that political reconciliation is sometimes necessary. “In politics, you can differ and later find common ground. What matters is what’s best for the country.”
Turning his attention to the current administration, Bwalya delivered a scathing assessment of President Hakainde Hichilema’s leadership. He said the United Party for National Development (UPND) has failed to unite the country or uphold the principles of good governance and meritocracy, accusing it of deepening tribal divisions and undermining the rule of law.
Bwalya also raised alarm over the recently enacted Cybersecurity and Cyber Crimes Act. As a legal professional, he warned the law could erode civil liberties by criminalising dissent and restricting online expression. “This legislation threatens freedoms Zambians hold dear, freedom of speech, conscience, and association. It targets critics under the guise of regulating digital spaces.”
Another major concern for Bwalya is the recent withdrawal of United States aid funding to Zambia, especially for HIV, TB, and malaria programmes. He called the move catastrophic, citing over a million citizens dependent on antiretroviral treatment. Bwalya blamed the decision on corruption within the UPND government, pointing to damning figures from Zambia’s Financial Intelligence Centre.
Reflecting on his past support for both Lungu and Hichilema, Bwalya admitted regrets, particularly about the latter. “I genuinely believed he had the ideas and business sense to lead. Unfortunately, things have only worsened under his leadership.”
Despite past missteps, Bwalya says he is committed to charting a new path forward. “I stand alone now, leading a party with a clear vision. I’ve written it down, I’ve spoken to people directly, and I intend to keep my promises. The Zambian people can hold me to that.”
--ChannelAfrica--
