Fr Mwewa canes UPND for blocking opposition activities

By MUKWIMA CHILALA

A CATHOLIC priest, Father Augustine Mwewa has condemned the United Party for National Development (UPND) for engaging in early campaigns while restricting opposition political activities under the guise of the Public Order Act.
Fr Mwewa, who also serves as president of Catholic Priests in Zambia, expressed concern over what he termed an uneven political playing field as the country heads towards the 2026 general elections.
Speaking in an interview, Fr Mwewa said it was troubling that political actors appear to disregard the Constitution and the rule of law, warning that such conduct was undermining democratic principles.
Fr Mwewa explained that the political environment leading up to the elections had already been compromised, stating that the ruling party had commenced its campaigns ahead of the legally prescribed period, while opposition parties were being denied similar opportunities.
He has questioned whether the country was operating under a fair legal framework, suggesting that some politicians appeared to be above the law, while others were easily being sanctioned.
“Both the ruling party and the opposition must be held accountable to the same legal standards. The continued disregard for the rule law by political players’ risks eroding public trust in governance systems,” Fr Mwewa said.
Fr Mwewa emphasised that respecting the Constitution and electoral laws is essential to ensuring credible and peaceful elections in 2026.