Former Education PS Jobbicks Kalumba joins UPND, commends HH for implementing good policies.

LUSAKA – The political landscape in Zambia continues to witness significant realignments as former Ministry of Education Permanent Secretary for Technical Services, Jobbicks Kalumba, officially announced his defection to the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND). This high-profile move, confirmed by Kalumba himself, comes with a ringing endorsement of President Hakainde Hichilema’s administration, particularly highlighting the progressive strides made in the education sector. Kalumba specifically lauded the government's flagship free education policy and the ambitious recruitment drive that has seen over 30,000 new teachers absorbed into the public service, policies he believes are genuinely transformative for the nation's future. Kalumba’s decision to join the UPND is more than just another political defection; it carries considerable weight given his technocratic background and intimate knowledge of the education ministry. His public commendation of the government's policies from the vantage point of a former senior civil servant lends a measure of credibility to the UPND's agenda, particularly in a sector as crucial and politically sensitive as education. For the ruling party, this endorsement serves as a strategic validation, allowing them to showcase their competence and broad appeal beyond traditional party lines. It underscores the ongoing trend of prominent figures, many with a history in public service, choosing to align with the current administration, a phenomenon not uncommon in Zambian politics where aligning with the perceived power often offers avenues for continued relevance. However, as with many such high-profile political shifts, the timing and underlying motivations behind Kalumba's move are likely to invite scrutiny from independent media and the discerning public. While the government narrative will undoubtedly amplify his defection as evidence of successful policies and growing national support, questions may arise regarding wh