'IT MEANS AS IF WE ARE EXCLUDED FROM THE GOOD FREEDOM': THWARTED EXPECTATIONS OF INDEPENDENCE IN THE LUAPULA PROVINCE.

The article argues for the adoption of an empirical, sub-systemic approach to the investigation of nationalist and postcolonial politics in Zambia. The extent of the United National Independence Party's political hegemony immediately after independence has been grossly exaggerated. The diplomatic and ethnic strategies of the ruler of the eastern Lunda kingdom of Kazembe are examined against the backdrop of rising popular discontent with independent government's performance.