United Party for National Development (UPND) National Management Committee Member, Elvis Nkandu has condemned remarks attributed to former Minister of Finance, Katele Kalumba against President Hakainde Hichilema. In a statement Issued to the media in Lusaka, Mr Nkandu indicated…

United Party for National Development (UPND) National Management Committee Member, Elvis  Nkandu has condemned remarks attributed to former Minister of Finance, Katele Kalumba against President Hakainde Hichilema.

In a statement Issued to  the media in Lusaka, Mr Nkandu indicated that such remarks are deeply regrettable and unbefitting to Zambia’s political discourse.

He noted that while citizens enjoy constitutional freedoms of expression, such rights must be exercised with responsibility and respect for state institutions, particularly the Presidency.

Mr Nkandu said it is unfortunate that Dr Kalumba, a former senior public servant, would resort to language intended to demean the Head of State despite having personally benefited from the President’s compassion.

He recalled that Dr Kalumba was pardoned on medical grounds in 2023 after serving a conviction linked to offences under the former MMD administration.

Mr Nkandu stressed that President Hichilema’s decision to extend clemency was an act of humanity and not weakness, which should have been met with gratitude rather than disrespect.

“The President extended mercy when mercy was sought. The least that can be expected in return is respect for the institution of the Presidency and for the people who entrusted President Hichilema with leadership,’’ he stated.

Mr Nkandu further warned against attempts to inject regionalism into political debate, saying Zambia’s unity must not be undermined by divisive rhetoric.

“Zambia belongs to all of us, and the Presidency belongs to all Zambians,” he emphasised.

He also urged political actors to demonstrate maturity following the 2026 elections, reminding them that disagreement does not equate to enmity.

Mr Nkandu stressed that criticism of government policies is legitimate, but reckless allegations and insults against the Presidency threaten national cohesion.

“As a member of the UPND National Management Committee, I will continue to defend democratic values, including respect for constitutional institutions, national unity, human dignity and the rule of law,’’ Mr Nkandu affirmed.

He called on Dr Kalumba to reflect on his public standing and contribute constructively to national dialogue, stressing that Zambia’s unity is greater than any individual politician or party.