Former president Banda makes a surprise visit to Chibolya

Rupiah Banda

Former President Rupiah Banda made an impromptu visit to the Chibolya compound in Lusaka on Tuesday as he ups his campaigns ahead of the January 20, 2015 presidential polls.

Banda, who is the presidential candidate for Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD), was warmly greeted by hundreds of residents at the market in Chibolya, who came out of their homes upon hearing of the surprise visit, clapping and cheering for the former president.

A reporter on the scene said that Banda asked the marketeers questions about what problems they are facing, who complained about how basic costs have been rising in recent years. He spoke about the need for the next government to address the needs of the poor, while urging supporters to abstain from any violence during the campaign.

“Let’s remain united,” Banda said to the assembled crowd. “I have come back to unite you people. Please we shouldn’t fight. We should remain united regardless of tribe.”

One woman exclaimed: “Nachiwona ichi chimintu chikali na mphamvu (I have seen this person. He’s still energetic).”

Rupiah Banda’s campaign for the January 20 presidential by-election is picking up steam with several events planned later this week.