UPND reports trio masquarading as party leaders.

**Lusaka –** The ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) has escalated its internal disciplinary measures, reporting two individuals to law enforcement agencies for allegedly attempting to usurp power from the party's legitimate leadership. This unprecedented move, confirmed by the UPND’s media director, signals a firm stance by the party against perceived challenges to its established hierarchy and has ignited debate across the political spectrum regarding internal party dynamics and democratic principles. While the party maintains this action is vital for maintaining stability and order, critics are already questioning the implications for internal dissent and the broader political landscape. The reported incident, though lacking specific details regarding the identities of the individuals or the precise nature of their alleged 'power usurpation', underscores a potential undercurrent of turbulence within the UPND. For a party that swept to power on a platform of unity and good governance, such public actions against purported members suggest a proactive, albeit forceful, approach to consolidating authority. The UPND media director's confirmation frames this as a necessary step to protect the party's leadership and ensure its cohesive functioning, projecting an image of a party in control, swiftly addressing any internal challenges that might undermine its mandate or public perception. However, independent political analysts and opposition voices are likely to interpret this development through a different lens. Concerns are already mounting that such a strong-arm tactic could be indicative of growing internal rifts, an intolerance for dissenting views, or even a degree of paranoia within the ruling party. Questions are being raised about the severity of the alleged actions to warrant a police report, with some suggesting it could be a tactic to silence critics rather than address genuine threats to party cohesion. In a nation with a history of robust