Civil rights activist Brebnar Changala says he has learnt a hard political lesson, cautioning against supporting leaders he describes as “desperate for power,” in reference to his past backing of President Hakainde Hichilema.
Speaking during EMV live programme monitored by Zambian Eye, Changala reflected on the role he played in supporting Hichilema’s rise to power in 2021, explaining that his actions were largely driven by strong opposition to the Patriotic Front (PF) administration under late former president Edgar Lungu.
Role in UPND support
Changala said he was part of a broader effort involving senior citizens and civil society actors under the Organisation for Community Development Initiatives in Africa (OCIDA), which mobilised support for the United Party for National Development (UPND).
He explained that at the time, UPND was the largest opposition party but struggled to win elections due to perceptions that it was regionally based.
According to Changala, the support extended to Hichilema was premised on expectations that his leadership would deliver key reforms in institutions such as the police, judiciary and the Electoral Commission of Zambia.
“I have learnt a lesson”
However, Changala said those expectations have not been met, arguing that the current administration has deviated from the reform agenda he and others had anticipated.
“I have learnt a lesson in my life never to back a desperate man, especially one seeking state power,” he said.
He further claimed that the situation has deteriorated, alleging that governance under Hichilema has, in his view, become worse than under the previous administration.
PF existence and internal battles
In a notable shift, Changala also explained why he now supports the continued existence of the Patriotic Front, despite previously advocating for its removal from power.
He argued that a functioning democracy requires a strong opposition and warned against attempts to weaken or eliminate political competitors.
Changala also weighed in on the ongoing internal wrangles within PF, alleging that the party had been “hijacked unconstitutionally” amid leadership disputes.
He claimed that state influence may have played a role in the power struggles, suggesting that changes in party leadership structures appeared to have occurred abruptly and outside established procedures.
Concerns over democratic space
The activist said he is now focused on advocating for what he described as the restoration of democratic principles in Zambia, including respect for political plurality and institutional independence.
His remarks come at a time of heightened political tension, with opposition parties raising concerns about governance, while government officials have maintained that democratic space remains intact.
Ongoing debate
Changala’s comments are likely to add to the ongoing national debate over governance, political competition and the state of democracy as Zambia moves closer to the 2026 general elections.
The government has not issued a response to his specific claims.
Please address the perception that successful govt overlook your contribution and do not reward you in any way and in return you become disillusioned.