By Burnett Munthali
In what is being described as an unforeseen political blunder, President Hakainde Hichilema (HH) is reportedly grappling with the consequences of his decision to fire Garry Nkombo.
A well-placed source within the United Party for National Development (UPND) has revealed that the president deeply regrets his move, citing the widespread criticism and unexpected backlash from party supporters.
According to the source, President HH has scheduled a crucial meeting with senior UPND members at Community House this Thursday.
The agenda is clear: to deliberate on the next steps regarding Garry Nkombo, whose rising popularity within the party has caused shockwaves among the ruling party’s top brass.
It is now evident that the dismissal was not based on corruption allegations but rather on the growing influence and appeal that Nkombo commands among party sympathizers.
The source pointed out that Nkombo’s popularity has been steadily increasing, with many party loyalists chanting “Nkombo 2026” at recent gatherings.
This, according to insiders, alarmed President HH, who has long viewed the Mazabuka MP as a potential threat.
The delayed appointment of Nkombo to a ministerial position in 2021, despite UPND’s victory, was allegedly due to similar concerns, and it took the intervention of Senior Chief Mukuni to secure his place in the cabinet.
Adding to the controversy, the source highlighted that numerous UPND officials, including prominent figures like Sylvia Masebo, continue to serve in cabinet despite allegations of corruption.
This stark contrast raises questions about the real motive behind Nkombo’s dismissal.
The recent incident in Mazabuka, where journalists were attacked by UPND cadres, only to have Nkombo step in and amicably resolve the matter, further cemented his influence within the party, intensifying the president’s apprehension.
As pressure mounts, the president is now scrambling to manage the situation.
Over the past 48 hours, efforts have been made to coerce Nkombo into reaffirming his loyalty to UPND.
Sources indicate that State House officials have been incessantly calling him, urging him not to issue any statements that could further destabilize the party.
The president is reportedly desperate to prevent any fallout that could significantly damage UPND’s standing ahead of the 2026 elections.
The upcoming Thursday meeting is expected to focus on strategies to reconcile with Nkombo before it is too late.
With mounting public support for the ousted minister and growing discontent within the party, the stakes are high.
Will President HH find a way to mend ties with Nkombo and maintain party unity, or will this rift mark the beginning of deeper divisions within UPND?
The unfolding political drama promises to be a defining moment in Zambia’s political landscape
