First it was first President Kenneth Kaunda who, on September 13 confirmed his support of United Democratic Alliance presidential candidate Hakainde Hichilema. There was obvious condemnation by many of Kaunda's move especially that in his declaration Kaunda took the opportunity to declare that Patriotic Front leader Michael Sata was unfit to be president of Zambia.
Kaunda's utterances usually generate various reactions from a cross-section of Zambians.
The it was the turn of second president Frederick Chiluba who, on September 17 announced he was supporting Sata's candidature. Chiluba said he could not support MMD, the party that put him power in 1991, because President Levy Mwanawasa had destroyed the party.
Chiluba was speaking at Lusaka International Airport on his return from medical treatment. He also condemned Mwanawasa for blowing his trumpet over the fact that he had sent him for medical treatment in South Africa. Chiluba noted that when he was in power he had sent many people for treatment in South Africa including Mr Mwanawasa.
Of interest only Levy Mwanawasa criticised Chiluba for declaring his support for Sata. Of interest too, is the fact that most observers are now wondering which to the two former presidents would emerge victorious.
However, many are banking on Chiluba's popularity to propel Sata to victory.
"We are merely following the elders. Kaunda opened the door," commented former president Chiluba's aide Emmanuel Mwamba September 18.
Yahoo! Messenger - with free PC-PC calling and photo sharing.
