Zambia’s Chitalu Chilufya, one of the candidates for the former ruling Patriotic Front (PF) party’s presidential nomination, has reportedly withdrawn from the race.

Sources close to Chilufya, who previously declared his intention to succeed current President Edgar Lungu, say that the former Minister of Health has had a change of heart.

According to the sources, Chilufya’s family has been against his presidential ambitions and he has failed to mobilize the resources necessary to campaign effectively, as other candidates like Brian Mundubile and Miles Sampa have done.

When contacted for comment, Chilufya’s phone went unanswered.

However, a journalist known for writing positive stories about Chilufya has continued to post articles suggesting that the candidate is still in the race.

It is worth noting that, this news have not been officially confirmed by Dr Chilufya and his campaign team.