14/05/2026
*Ba Media 100%*
*THE VOICE THAT NEVER SHOOK: WHY MAKENI’S HOPE FOR DEVELOPMENT, EMPOWERMENT, AND JOB CREATION IS CALLED MARK SIMUUWE*
The wind of change is blowing strongly in Makeni Constituency, and many residents are now looking toward a future filled with development, empowerment opportunities, employment creation, and visionary leadership. At the center of this growing optimism stands Mark Simuuwe, a man many describe as fearless, courageous, and deeply committed to the vision of a better Zambia under Hakainde Hichilema.
As conversations surrounding the future leadership of Makeni continue to intensify, one thing remains clear: Mr. Mark Simuuwe is not a leader who jokes when it comes to matters of development. His name has become associated with sacrifice, truth-telling, resilience, and unwavering dedication to the people. For many UPND members and supporters across Zambia, Mark Simuuwe is not just another aspiring candidate—he is a tested fighter who stood firm during difficult political times when many voices were silent in fear.
For those who may not fully know who Mark Simuuwe is, history speaks loudly on his behalf. During the tense and politically charged years under the leadership of *Edgar Chagwa Lungu* and the *PF administration*, Mark Simuuwe emerged as one of the few bold citizens who consistently appeared on national television platforms, especially on Prime TV political analysis programs, to openly challenge what he viewed as *injustice, corruption, intimidation, and abuse of power*.
At a time when many feared speaking openly, Mark Simuuwe stood before cameras and fearlessly condemned what he and many others described as rampant corruption, suppression of freedoms, hacking of citizens, political intimidation, and violence. He became known as a voice that spoke truth without compromise. Many remember how he openly criticized the climate of fear and political tension that existed during that period, even when doing so placed his own life, reputation, and family under enormous pressure.
To many citizens, he became the voice of the voiceless.
When fear covered the nation like a dark cloud, Mark Simuuwe continued speaking. When many citizens were intimidated into silence, his courage inspired countless Zambians to believe that democracy and freedom were still worth fighting for. His appearances on live television became moments that gave hope to ordinary citizens who felt abandoned and unheard.
Know that Mark Simuuwe did not fight for personal gain. Rather, he believed in the future of Zambia and in the vision championed by President Hakainde Hichilema and the UPND government. He believed that one day, a child in Shangombo would have access to free education. He believed that vulnerable families would benefit from *social support programs*. He believed that ordinary citizens would finally gain access to empowerment opportunities and grants capable of transforming their lives.
Today, many point to government empowerment initiatives, free education policies, and grants being accessed by citizens as proof that people like Mark Simuuwe were fighting for a purpose bigger than themselves.
When President Hakainde Hichilema faced the controversial *treason charges* years ago, many politicians and public figures remained silent. Yet *Mark Simuuwe*, alongside voices such as *Gilbert Phiri* and others, continued appearing publicly to challenge the situation and speak openly without intimidation. That courage earned him admiration from many UPND supporters across the country.
During the disturbing period of mysterious gassing incidents that spread fear among citizens, Mark Simuuwe also publicly condemned the acts and called for peace, unity, and the protection of innocent Zambians. Throughout his public engagements, his message consistently centered on peace, democracy, accountability, and national unity.
Political analysts and UPND supporters believe that figures like Mark Simuuwe played a significant role in mobilizing support for the UPND ahead of the historic 2021 general elections. Through television debates, political discussions, media appearances, and grassroots engagements, he helped persuade many undecided citizens to believe in change and vote for the UPND government.
Today, as UPND Media Director, Mark Simuuwe continues defending government policies and countering opposition propaganda directed at President Hakainde Hichilema and the ruling party. His supporters say his communication skills, political understanding, and ability to articulate issues make him one of the strongest voices within the movement.
Now, attention has shifted toward Makeni Constituency, where Mark Simuuwe is reportedly aspiring to represent the people as Member of Parliament. Across different communities, conversations are growing louder about what his leadership could mean for the constituency.
Many residents and supporters believe that with Mark Simuuwe in Parliament, Makeni could witness accelerated development, increased empowerment programs, youth opportunities, improved community projects, and stronger representation at national level. They argue that Parliament needs fearless and articulate leaders capable of defending the interests of ordinary citizens while supporting progressive national development.
As UPND youths from Chirundu, we wholeheartedly endorse the candidature of Mark Simuuwe for the position of Member of Parliament for Makeni Constituency. We believe Parliament requires leaders who are courageous, visionary, development-oriented, and committed to defending the aspirations of the people.
Just imagine a Parliament with Mark Simuuwe inside.
Imagine the energy, the fearless debates, the defense of government programs, the advocacy for youth empowerment, and the push for development opportunities in communities. Imagine a Parliament strengthened by leaders who understand sacrifice and who have already proven themselves during difficult national moments.
In the same spirit, we also reaffirm our strong endorsement of *Douglas Syakalima* in Chirundu Constituency, whose developmental efforts continue to transform lives through infrastructure projects, education expansion, and community empowerment initiatives.
We further believe that Zambia’s Parliament must continue benefiting from experienced and committed leaders such as *Jack Mwiimbu, Elvis Nkandu*, and *Silver Masebo*, among many others who continue contributing toward national development and governance.
As Zambia continues on its path of economic recovery, democratic growth, and national transformation, citizens are increasingly demanding leaders who have demonstrated courage, consistency, and commitment long before seeking office.
For many supporters in Makeni and beyond, Mark Simuuwe represents exactly that kind of leadership.
The message from many UPND youths is becoming louder and clearer: the journey toward development, empowerment, and employment opportunities in Makeni has begun — and they believe Mark Simuuwe is ready to lead that journey.
*By Ba Media 100%*
*R. Chikanya*
