IN UPND, SOME SINS ARE BIGGER THAN OTHERS SAYS GARY NKOMBO.

MAZABUKA – Prominent political figure and Mazabuka Central independent parliamentary candidate, Gary Nkombo, has ignited a fresh debate within Zambia's political landscape by alleging that the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) applies a discriminatory standard to internal discipline. Nkombo, a long-serving member of the UPND who recently opted to contest as an independent, stated that "some sins are bigger than others" within the party, implying a lack of equitable treatment for its members. Nkombo's remarks come at a critical juncture, as Zambia gears up for the August 13 general elections. His decision to run as an independent for the Mazabuka Central constituency, a seat he previously held under the UPND banner, has been attributed to a feeling of being 'thrown to the dumpsite' and overlooked by the party leadership despite his significant contributions. This sentiment was further exacerbated by an alleged violent confrontation involving suspected UPND cadres during his nomination filing, an incident which President Hakainde Hichilema himself condemned and called for investigations into. These events paint a picture of deep-seated internal tensions within the party that secured a decisive victory in the 2021 elections. The former Minister of Local Government and Rural Development, who served in various UPND portfolios since 2001, formally resigned from the party on May 22, 2026. He cited not only the alleged assault and damage to his property by known UPND members but also the legal requirement for independent candidates to resign from their party 60 days before elections as reasons for his departure. Nkombo's departure and subsequent claims underscore the challenges faced by established political parties in managing internal dissent and succession, particularly as they transition from opposition to governance. His assertion of selective justice within the UPND resonates with broader public concerns about fairness and accountability in politic