Resolute Party  will not participate in the upcoming by-elections, but will instead support the ruling UPND

The political landscape in Zambia has witnessed another notable realignment following an announcement by Resolute Party (RP) leader Dr. Martin Phiri that his party will abstain from participating in the upcoming parliamentary, mayoral, and local government ward by-elections. Instead of entering the electoral fray to contest the vacant seats, Dr. Phiri confirmed that the party has opted to throw its weight behind the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND). The upcoming polls, recently announced by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), include crucial parliamentary contests in areas such as Lumezi North and Mandevu, alongside the Mbala mayoral seat and several ward elections across multiple provinces. While major opposition camps like the Patriotic Front (PF) have signaled their intention to aggressively contest these vacancies, the Resolute Party's decision to step back marks a strategic departure from direct competition, reflecting internal tactical considerations following the recent national elections. Dr. Phiri's announcement underscores a growing trend of political accommodation and shifting alliances within Zambia's fractured opposition ecosystem. Having previously navigated complex pre-election coalition dynamics—including stints within broader opposition pacts before and after the general elections—the Resolute Party appears to be consolidating its position by avoiding resource-heavy local contests. Analysts note that fielding candidates in scattered by-elections requires substantial financial and organizational muscle, assets that smaller or newly established political entities often struggle to sustain outside major national cycles. The decision has predictably elicited mixed reactions from the Zambian electorate and rival political actors. While ruling party sympathizers view the endorsement as validation of the UPND's governance approach and inclusive posture, critics within opposition circles have questioned the longevity and indepen