LUSAKA - President Hakainde Hichilema has mocked NRPUP presidential candidate Brian Mundubile over his public appeal for campaign donations, prompting social media users to point out that the President previously used similar fundraising initiatives during his own election campaigns.
Mr. Mundubile launched what he described as a "people-driven campaign" on Saturday, inviting supporters to make voluntary contributions through a dedicated fundraising platform to help finance campaign activities ahead of the August 13 General Election.
The National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity (NRPUP) said the funds would support campaign logistics during the final days of the election campaign.
Responding on Sunday, President Hichilema made light of the fundraising effort in a Facebook post.
"Ma first born ati, GoFundMe uko! Anyway, we have CDF for those who need financing! Bally," the President wrote.
The remarks quickly attracted reactions online, with several social media users recalling that Mr. Hichilema also relied on public fundraising during previous election campaigns.
Ahead of the 2016 General Election, the UPND presidential campaign raised funds through a GoFundMe campaign managed by supporters.
In 2015, Mr. Hichilema also promoted an online donation platform encouraging supporters to contribute to his campaign. A similar fundraising drive was launched again ahead of the 2021 General Election through another GoFundMe campaign.
Mr. Mundubile's fundraising initiative follows a similar approach previously adopted by constitutional lawyer John Sangwa, whose Movement for National Renewal campaign also sought financial support from members of the public before he later withdrew from the presidential race.
The exchange comes as political parties intensify campaigns in the final days before the general election, with candidates seeking additional resources to finance transport, rallies and other campaign activities.