Former Minister of Chiefs and Traditional Affairs, Lawrence Sichalwe, has sounded the alarm over the growing trend of traditional leaders aligning themselves with political parties, warning that such conduct poses a serious threat to national unity and peace.
Speaking in an interview on Monday, Sichalwe was reacting to recent remarks made by Chief Kaingu of the Ila-speaking people of Itezhi-tezhi, who urged Zambians to support and retain President Hakainde Hichilema in the 2026 general election. Chief Kaingu, in his comments, praised President Hichilema’s leadership and said that under the previous Patriotic Front (PF) regime, citizens were harassed for wearing red — a colour associated with the current ruling party, UPND.
But Sichalwe expressed concern over the chief’s apparent endorsement, describing it as dangerous and potentially divisive.
“It’s actually a time bomb and a very big recipe for confusion,” he stated. “One good example is the mentioned chief who has openly endorsed a particular candidate. Now the question is: how will he allow other political leaders to campaign freely in his chiefdom?”
Sichalwe warned that such actions undermine the impartiality expected of traditional leaders and risk alienating citizens who may support different political views. He stressed that chiefs are custodians of culture and tradition and should remain neutral to ensure all people under their jurisdiction are treated equally.
He also questioned whether citizens in Chief Kaingu’s area would feel safe or comfortable expressing alternative political opinions now that the traditional leader had clearly taken a side.
“If the chief is already siding with one political party, it compromises his ability to lead without bias. People from other parties may not feel protected or respected in that chiefdom,” Sichalwe added.
He further noted that Zambia’s constitution and governance structures depend heavily on chiefs maintaining a non-partisan stance, especially during electoral periods.
The former minister urged traditional leaders across the country to exercise caution and restraint when speaking on political matters, warning that their words carry significant influence and can either unite or divide their communities.
As the 2026 elections draw closer, Sichalwe’s comments serve as a reminder of the delicate balance between tradition and politics in Zambia, and the role chiefs must play in promoting peace, tolerance, and inclusivity.