UNIP–ANC coalition government
The UNIP–ANC Coalition Government was a transitional political alliance between the United National Independence Party (UNIP) and the African National Congress (ANC) in Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia) from 1962 to 1964. The coalition was formed after the general elections of October 1962, in which no single party obtained an outright majority. It played a critical role in paving the way for Zambia’s independence in 1964.
Background
In the late 1950s and early 1960s, Northern Rhodesia experienced growing nationalist sentiment and demands for African self-rule. The ANC, led by Harry Nkumbula, was the oldest nationalist party. However, in 1959, a group led by Kenneth Kaunda broke away to form the more radical UNIP.
Both parties sought to end colonial rule, but diverged ideologically, with UNIP favouring a more assertive approach. Despite previous rivalry, they agreed to collaborate after the 1962 general elections to prevent the settler-backed United Federal Party from maintaining power.
1962 General Election
The general election held in October 1962 produced the following result:
- UNIP – 14 seats
- ANC – 7 seats
- United Federal Party – 16 seats
With no party holding a majority in the 45-seat Legislative Council, UNIP and ANC formed a coalition government, giving African nationalists control of the colony's political future.
Composition and Role
The coalition government marked the first time that Africans shared governing power in Northern Rhodesia. Notable positions included:
- Kenneth Kaunda – Minister of Local Government and Social Welfare (UNIP)
- Harry Nkumbula – Member of the Cabinet (ANC)
- Arthur Wina – Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance (UNIP)
The coalition laid the groundwork for constitutional reforms that led to full independence. It also oversaw the negotiation of the 1964 independence settlement with the British government.
Collapse of the Coalition
The coalition was short-lived due to ideological differences and political ambitions. Tensions between UNIP and ANC leaders resurfaced. UNIP, enjoying growing popular support, positioned itself as the dominant force.
By 1964, ANC’s influence had waned, and many of its members had defected to UNIP. In the January 1964 elections, UNIP won a majority, ending the coalition and forming an independent government.
Aftermath
Zambia gained independence on 24 October 1964, with Kenneth Kaunda as its first President. UNIP governed Zambia as the ruling party until 1991. The ANC became the official opposition but was later dissolved after Zambia became a one-party state in 1972.
References
- ↑ Mulford, David C. Zambia: The Politics of Independence 1957–1964. Oxford University Press, 1967.
- ↑ Gertzel, Cherry. The Dynamics of the One-Party State in Zambia. Manchester University Press, 1984.
- ↑ Macpherson, Fergus. Kenneth Kaunda of Zambia: The Times and the Man. Oxford University Press, 1974.
- ↑ Times of Zambia, “Zambia's Journey to Independence,” 24 October 2014 (Anniversary Edition).
