By Respite Kaoma,
Political activist Bill Kapinga has cautioned that the growing number of political parties in Zambia is weakening the country’s electoral process and fragmenting the opposition.
Speaking in Kitwe, Kapinga said many political parties are being formed along regional lines, a trend he warned is making it increasingly difficult for any single opposition party to mount a credible challenge against the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND).
He cautioned that this fragmentation could entrench prolonged political dominance, weaken accountability, and undermine democratic principles in the country.
Mr. Kapinga cited countries such as the United States as examples where fewer major political parties have contributed to more structured and competitive political systems.
He further called for reforms to the electoral system and political party legislation, proposing the introduction of minimum national representation and support thresholds before political parties are allowed to participate in elections, as a way of strengthening democracy and promoting meaningful political competition.
