The United Party for National Development (UPND) […]

The United Party for National Development (UPND) Alliance has categorically dismissed allegations that the delay in appointing a full cabinet is linked to unresolved election petitions and the lack of parliamentary seats among some former cabinet ministers.

Highvie Hamududu, president of the Party of National Unity and Progress (PNUP) and a member of the UPND Alliance, has, however, clarified that there is no set timeframe for President Hakainde Hichilema (HH) to appoint all cabinet ministers, emphasizing that the process is deliberate and strategic.

President Hakainde Hichilema has so far appointed 4 cabinet ministers out of about 24 – 25 Cabinet Ministers, alongside provincial ministers, following his re-election in the August 2026 elections.

The appointed ministers are: Situmbeko Musokotwane – Minister of Finance and National Planning (re-appointed), Mulambo Haimbe – Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (re-appointed), Roma Chilengi – Minister of Health and Gilbert Siame – Minister of Green Economy and Environment.

Some senior cabinet ministers in President Hakainde Hichilema’s government lost their parliamentary seats in the August 13, 2026 general elections, including Minister of Mines and Minerals Development Paul Kabuswe (Chililabombwe), Minister of Transport and Logistics Frank Tayali (Ndola Central), Reuben Mtolo Phiri – Minister of agriculture, Minister of Lands and Natural Resources Sylvia Masebo and many more other ministers.

Some former cabinet ministers who suffered defeats have since filed petitions in the High Court to challenge their election losses, alleging that the elections were not free and fair.

In an interview with the Zambian Business Times – ZBT, Hamududu, however, addressed concerns from sections of the public and the business community regarding the perceived delay in naming the full cabinet.

He dismissed claims of a delay, stating, “It’s not a delay at all; it’s a process. Appointing a cabinet is a serious matter. The President is taking the necessary time to build a strong team for Zambia’s ambitious growth agenda.”

Hamududu noted that key ministries such as Finance, Foreign Affairs, Health, and Economy have already been filled due to urgent operational requirements.

“Where there was pressure to meet specific timelines, ministers were appointed accordingly. Otherwise, government operations remain uninterrupted and there is no gap in leadership.”

Comparing the current process to previous election cycles, Hamududu explained, “Nothing has changed except that the national agenda is now more ambitious, requiring even greater diligence. The President’s methodical approach has already yielded significant results, such as the impressive 5 million tonnes maize production after the recent drought and major reforms in the energy sector.”

He said.Responding to speculation that unresolved election petitions or the lack of parliamentary seats among some former Ministers might be causing the delay, Hamududu refuted the claims.

“That’s very far from the truth. The conclusion of petitions is not a factor. The President will appoint a full cabinet in due course, drawing from the wide pool of capable individuals in Parliament.”

When asked whether the UPND has enough qualified individuals to fill cabinet positions given that some former ministers did not win their parliamentary seats, Hamududu noted that, “The Cabinet is appointed from members of Parliament, and there is no shortage of capable individuals. It is incorrect to suggest that those who lost their seats are necessarily more qualified. Parliament comprises a broad pool of talented members, many of whom are well-equipped to serve in the Cabinet. In fact, with a larger Parliament, the President has an even wider range of qualified candidates to choose from. The ability to deliver is not limited to those who previously held positions, there are plenty of competent and experienced parliamentarians ready to take on these responsibilities.”

He further assured that the government continues to function smoothly, with technocrats and the civil service maintaining continuity. “It is not the ministers who prepare the budget, it’s the technocrats, and they have done it before. This is a continuing government, not a new one.”

Hamududu urged the public to trust President Hichilema’s leadership, highlighting the proven results of his careful and scientific decision-making. “By the time the full cabinet is announced, people will understand the wisdom behind this approach. Zambia remains in good hands as we look ahead to the 2026 elections and the President’s swearing-in.”

By Tyndale Muchiya

picture below is a list of recent past full Cabinet