Patriots for Economic Progress (PeP) presidential candidate Chanda Katotobwe has announced his resignation as a patriotic Front member of parliament after crossing the floor.
Yesterday, Katotobwe submitted his deposit slip for the presidential nomination fee to Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) headquarters in Lusaka.
PeP recently unveiled Chanda Katotobwe as its Presidential candidate for the August 13, 2026 General Election.
The then party President Sean Tembo announced the development during a press briefing held in Lusaka, stating that he will instead contest the election as the party’s running mate.
Tembo explained that the decision reflects his commitment to prioritizing the interests of the Zambian people above personal ambition.
Meanwhile, Katotobwe accepted the nomination wholeheartedly, pledging to not only lead the party to electoral victory but also deliver meaningful change for citizens.
He emphasized the need for unity, noting that the current moment presents a critical opportunity for Zambians to come together, especially amid growing concerns over governance and service delivery.
Katotobwe until today has been a Member of Parliament for Luapula Constituency under the Patriotic Front and had previously expressed interest in contesting for the presidency at the party’s convention, which has yet to take place due to protracted legal battles.
He was also not among those who participated in the “No Name Convention,” which saw Makebi Zulu elected as President, defeating Given Lubinda, Chishimba Kambwili, Chitalu Chilufya, and Greford Monde.
PeP Vice President Tembo clarified that he intends to serve in a dual role as both Vice President and Minister of Finance if his party forms government.
Tembo said the arrangement is aimed at ensuring effective planning and implementation of the national budget. He explained that this structure has already been agreed upon within the party as part of its governance plan.
He made the remarks when he appeared alongside PeP President Chanda Katotobwe on the Let the People Talk programme on Radio Phoenix.
The proposal comes ahead of the August elections, with the party outlining how it intends to manage key government functions if elected.
Apparently, Patriotic Front Pamodzi Alliance President, Makebi Zulu has paid the K100,000 nomination fee to the ECZ to participate in the 2026 General Elections.