The fall and rise of multi‐party politics in Zambia

Abstract

The overwhelming electoral victory of the MMD in November 1991 restored multi‐party politics to Zambia and ended the UNIP monopoly of government which had existed since 1964. A coalition of forces disenchanted by economic decline and resentful of authoritarian one‐party rule, the MMD has moved swiftly to reduce the economic and social role of the state and to promote market restructuring in line with IMF conditionalities. An alliance of trade union leaders and local capitalists, the MMD also committed itself to political reform which encouraged hopes that stable democratic institutions can be forged. However, after only a few months in office, criticism of presidential authoritarianism and the widespread use of patronage in appointments raises doubts that such promises will be delivered. The question is posed of whether MMD replaces UNIP or simply reproduces it.