UPND’S JUSTIN KAPEMA WINS PAMBASHE BY-ELECTION IN KAWAMBWA DISTRICT
The United Party for National Development (UPND) has achieved a significant victory in the Pambashe constituency by-election, held in Kawambwa district. UPND candidate Justin Kapema secured 5,067 votes, surpassing his closest competitor, Mwenya Williams of the Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD), who garnered 2,614 votes. Kanunsha Honorato of the Democratic Union received 1,722 votes, while James Mulenga of the Socialist Party obtained 509 votes. The results were officially declared by Returning Officer Michael Muunsha at 02:30 AM, confirming Justin Kapema as the elected Member of Parliament.
The by-election witnessed a voter turnout of approximately 48%, with 10,071 out of 20,954 registered voters casting their ballots. This victory is particularly noteworthy as it marks the UPND’s continued success in regions traditionally considered strongholds of opposition parties.
In the lead-up to the election, the UPND demonstrated a strong commitment to securing the seat. Five cabinet ministers camped in Pambashe Constituency to campaign for Justin Kapema. These ministers included Mines Minister Paul Kabuswe, Commerce Minister Chipoka Mulenga, Fisheries and Livestock Minister Peter Kapala, Small and Medium Enterprises Minister Elias Mubanga, and Sports Minister Elvis Nkandu. Their presence underscored the party’s dedication to addressing local issues and engaging with the electorate.
The Pambashe by-election was necessitated following the conviction of the former Patriotic Front (PF) Member of Parliament, Ronald Chitotela. The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) subsequently set February 6, 2025, as the date for the by-election, with nominations conducted on January 7, 2025.
This victory in Pambashe reflects the UPND’s growing influence and the electorate’s confidence in its leadership. The party has expressed gratitude to the voters and reiterated its commitment to fostering development and addressing the needs of the Pambashe constituency.
By Kalombe Kapambwa
