POLITICAL RALLIES DON’T WIN ELECTIONS  – UPND SENIOR MEMBER KAKOMA

LUSAKA – In a statement poised to ignite debate within Zambia's political landscape, Mr. Charles Kakoma, a senior member of the Patriotic Front (PF) and former long-serving spokesperson for the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), has asserted that political rallies do not, in themselves, win elections. His remarks challenge the deeply ingrained campaign tradition in Zambia, where large public gatherings have historically been seen as a primary measure of a party's popularity and a key tool for voter persuasion. Mr. Kakoma, whose political journey has seen him transition from a prominent voice of the UPND for 15 years (2006-2021) to joining the opposition PF, made these observations in what appears to be a reflection on past electoral cycles. He suggested that while rallies can generate excitement and provide a platform for leaders to connect with supporters, their impact on actual voting behaviour might be overstated. Instead, he posited that sustained grassroots engagement, effective communication of policy alternatives, and robust party structures at the constituency and ward levels are far more decisive factors in securing electoral victory. This perspective resonates with a growing body of political analysis, both locally and internationally, that emphasizes the importance of targeted messaging, door-to-door campaigns, and digital outreach over mass gatherings. In the Zambian context, where logistical challenges and the sheer scale of the country's geography often limit the reach of even the most well-attended rallies, Kakoma's comments invite scrutiny into the efficiency and efficacy of traditional campaign spending and efforts. His insights are particularly noteworthy given his extensive experience within the UPND, a party that successfully unseated an incumbent government, suggesting he has first-hand knowledge of what truly moves the needle with voters. His defection from UPND to PF in 2021, just months before the general election, was a