Copperbelt leaders reaffirm support for Mundubile, Reject Dr. Zumani Zimba

The Copperbelt chapter of BM8 has thrown its weight behind Tonse Alliance president Brian Mundubile, calling for unity within the opposition alliance and distancing itself from recent statements attributed to secretary general Dr Zimba Zumani.

Copperbelt Provincial Coordinator Amos Chisenga said the province fully supports Mundubile’s decision to suspend Zumani, arguing that statements made by the secretary general in his individual capacity have created tension within both the party and the wider Tonse Alliance.

Chisenga was speaking after visiting Mundubile and his vice president, Makebi Zulu.

He said the visit was also intended to reassure supporters that Mundubile was in good health and in high spirits.

“The president is in good health. The president was in high spirits,” Chisenga said.

He said Mundubile’s message to supporters outside was for them to remain united as the political pressure surrounding the alliance continues.

Chisenga said the Copperbelt would stand behind the suspension of Zumani, accusing the secretary general of making statements that were disturbing the party and the alliance.

He stressed that statements attributed to Zumani should not be regarded as the official position of Tonse Alliance.

“We will stand with our president, and everything that has been said by Zuma must be taken as statements that have been said by him in his own capacity, not in the capacity of Tonse Alliance,” he said.

Chisenga also alleged that Zumani may have been “bought” to make some of the statements he has made, but provided no evidence to support the claim.

The Copperbelt coordinator said the alliance should remain focused on what he described as the political pressure arising from the disputed election and avoid statements that could further divide its members.

He also called for the release of Mundubile, Zulu and other opposition figures who he said had been arrested in connection with the election.

“There cannot be any dialogue when your friends are behind bars,” Chisenga said.

He argued that meaningful dialogue would only be possible when all sides have a level playing field.

The statement comes amid tensions within the opposition camp over the direction and public messaging of Tonse Alliance.

For the Copperbelt BM8 leadership, however, the immediate message is one of unity behind Mundubile and support for detained opposition leaders.

Chisenga urged supporters to remain united and continue backing Mundubile and other opposition leaders until those in detention are released.