Former President Edgar Lungu, at a public rally in Kitwe organized by Citizens First (CF), vowed to resist govt intimidation, and claimed victory ahead of the 2026 elections.

As Lungu and his entourage arrived at the Kwacha grounds, residents began chanting “Lungu, Lungu” and “alebwelelapo.”

Speaking during the rally on Saturday, the former president urged Zambians to remain hopeful.

“Don’t cry because I am back and better. As for intimidations, I can’t succumb to them. The more I am intimidated, the more I show tenacity,” he said.

Lungu argued that the UKA was a formidable force given the political and governance experience of its leaders.

“This man does not want to consult. If he consulted elderly people like me, the government would not have exported all the maize,” he stated.

Lungu also warned UKA members who were cowardly to step aside, emphasizing that the political movement he championed would ensure victory in 2026.

He said that the alliance planned to reorganise and become a powerful force, adding that Zambians have recognised the current government’s deceit.

CF President, Harry Kalaba, told the gathering that UKA was determined to come into power in 2026 and end people’s suffering.

“The United Party for National Development (UPND) has brought misery to Zambians because of poor leadership. We are coming to solve all of that,” Kalaba stated.