A video shared by the Zambia Today Facebook page falsely suggests that former Minister of Information and Media, Cornelius Mweetwa, announced his departure from the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND). However, the video shows him addressing speculation surrounding his exclusion from the new Cabinet, without expressing any intention to leave the UPND.
Claim:
On 3rd November 2026, a Facebook page called Zambia Today published a video featuring former UPND Minister of Information and Media, Cornelius Mweetwa, which was accompanied by a caption suggesting that he was leaving the UPND party.
Verdict: False
Rating Justification:
iVerify Zambia analysed the video and established that the accompanying caption misrepresented the statements made by Cornelius Mweetwa. In the video, Mr Mweetwa dismisses social media speculation suggesting that his exclusion from the new Cabinet was linked to his alleged close association with a former UPND Member of Parliament and minister, or with certain opposition political figures.
He further explains that following the dissolution of the previous Cabinet and President Hakainde Hichilema’s re-election in the 2026 general election, the formation of a new Cabinet was expected. He emphasises that no former minister was automatically guaranteed a position in the new administration.
Mr Mweetwa makes no mention of any intention to leave the UPND. Rather, his remarks are focused on addressing speculation surrounding his exclusion from the new Cabinet and dismissing suggestions that it was a consequence of his alleged association with opposition political figures.
Conclusion:
The video does not show Cornelius Mweetwa announcing his departure from the UPND, as the Facebook caption appears to suggest. Instead, he is responding to speculation surrounding his exclusion from the new Cabinet and explaining why no former minister was guaranteed a place in the new administration. By attaching a misleading caption to his remarks, the Zambia Today Facebook page gives viewers a false impression of what he actually said and risks fuelling unnecessary political speculation and straining Mr. Mweetwa’s relationship with his political party.
This allegation highlights the danger that distorted information possess on people’s reputation and integrity, particularly public figures, and underscores the importance of ensuring that information shared in verified and credible.
EVIDENCE:
Original video featuring Cornelius Mweetwa: https://www.facebook.com/share/v/14wNzys9zN7/
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