Kambwili withdraws from PF presidential race
Kabwe,December,1,2014,ZANIS—Patriotic Front (PF) presidential candidate Chishsimba Kambwili has become the fourth candidate to have pulled out of the on-going PF presidential elections in Kabwe citing illegalities in the election process.
Mr. Kambwili, who is also sports Minister , has disassociated himself from the two PF presidential elections held separately on November 30 and December 1,2014 to choose a successor of late President Michael Sata.
The Roan Member of Parliament said he has taken this decision in the interest of upholding the party constitution and the unity of the party.
In a letter addressed to acting president Guy Scott and copied to party secretary general Bridget Atanga Mr. Kambwili appealed to Dr. Scott to urgently convene a central committee meeting to discuss the way forward for the party’s participation in the fourth coming presidential by-elections.
He noted that the acting president has the capacity to provide leadership to avoid a major split of the ruling party.
Mr. Kambwili further observed with concern that delegates for both PF elections did not meet the requirements of the party constitution.
He pointed out that the unfolding events in the PF may lead to the distraction of the ruling party.
However, when contacted for a comment PF deputy secretary General Anthony Kasolo expressed surprise at the development.
Others that have withdrawn from the race include Lusaka Mayor Mulenga Sata, Kabwata Member of Parliament Given Lubinda, and Agriculture Minister Wylbur Simuusa.