Kalaba Says Defections Do Not Reflect Instability…

Citizens First (CF)PresidentHarry Kalabahas dismissed suggestions that recent defections from his party are a sign of internal instability, saying it is normal for political parties to gain and lose members over time. Speaking through an interview, Mr. Kalaba was asked about the departure of several high-profile members, including his former running mateMoses Nawaand former allyGreyford Monde, who recently joined the rulingUPND Alliance.

The interviewer also referred to Mr. Kalaba’s earlier split from theDemocratic Party, which led to the formation of Citizens First, noting that several prominent figures have since left his political camp. In response, Mr.

Kalaba compared Citizens First to a bus travelling fromLusaka to Kawambwa, saying some passengers may get off along the way, but the bus will still reach its intended destination. He said the party remains focused on its long-term vision despite the recent defections, arguing that movement of members between political parties is a normal feature of democratic politics and should not be viewed as a sign of weakness. Kalaba added that alliances are dynamic and that political partners sometimes part ways when they no longer share the same objectives.

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QuotingAmos 3:3, he said,“Two cannot walk together unless they agree.” He further stated that those who choose to leave the party should be free to do so without resentment, while new members should be welcomed. Kalaba also argued that the movement of people in and out of Citizens First demonstrates that the party remains active and politically relevant, adding that political parties receiving little public attention rarely experience the same level of membership movement. The Citizens First leader is currently campaigning across the country ahead of the13 August General Election, where he is seeking to become Zambia’s next President.

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