The NDP has rejected allegations of dictatorship, nepotism, and financial misconduct directed at party leader Martin Lukato, though officials admit internal divisions are shaking the party ranks.

The allegations include claims that NDP president Lukato Lukato removed congress-elected members and replaced them.

NDP spokesperson Rasboom Mwemba, during a media conference, dismissed the claims as unfounded, maintaining that the party operates according to its constitution, with decisions taken through established party structures.

The party also denied allegations that Lukato has been removing elected members and replacing them with family members.

Mwemba said the party's constitution distinguishes between positions elected at congress and those appointed by the president, with appointments to non-congress positions made on the basis of merit.

"It is not true that the president is using his office to dictate the party. We are not even aware of the accusations of maladministration and misusing of party funds within the party, so it caught us by surprise that we only realised and knew about it when we saw it in print media, so the accusation of maladministration in the party is misleading.'

The party has also committed to providing its members with a clear account of its finances, with a financial report to be presented to members in due course.

Mwemba acknowledged that the party has experienced internal disagreements, much like any other political party, but denied that these amount to a breakdown or widespread infighting.

He said such issues are resolved amicably within the party.

Meanwhile, NDP Vice President David Mwilima announced the expulsion of three high-ranking members in connection with the allegations allegedly shared with the media.