Socialist Party Clash Over Leadership

Zambia’s Socialist Party faced internal dispute as president Fred M’membe removed National Mobilization Chair Kelvin Kaunda after Kaunda called for leadership renewal and announced plans to challenge him ahead of the 2026 elections. Kaunda accused the party leadership of weak performance and poor communication, urging a convention for new leaders. M’membe said he acted to calm tensions and stressed he would not remain leader longer than members want. Kaunda later denied declaring a challenge.