Government has expressed concern over recent allegations circulating in the public domain regarding Zambia Army Commander Lieutenant General, Geoffrey Zyeele’s remarks on ensuring order before, during, and after elections.
Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary, Thabo Kawana stated that the statement attributed to the Zambia Army Commander, asserting that the Army will ensure and enforce order before, during, and after elections, must be understood within its proper legal and institutional context.
Mr Kawana has since dismissed the allegations as misleading and speculative, in accordance with Zambia’s constitution and laws.
Mr Kawana however, emphasised that the government wishes to clarify that the Zambia Army remains a professional, disciplined, and non-partisan institution, loyal to the constitution and the people of Zambia.
He highlighted that as the country approaches the 2026 General Elections, the government reaffirms that all state institutions will operate strictly within their legal mandates.
He pointed out that the statutory mandate of the Defence Force is clearly outlined in Section 5 of the Defence Act, Chapter 106 of the Laws of Zambia, which states that the Defence Force is responsible for the defense of Zambia and any other duties that may arise from time to time, be assigned by the President.
He noted that this provision affirms that the Defence Force may lawfully be tasked with additional responsibilities in the national interest.
Addressing the media in Lusaka today, Mr Kawana urged members of the public to reject misinformation and maintain confidence in national institutions.
He emphasised that the Defence Force of Zambia which is established under Article 192 of the Constitution of Zambia does not seek to take on any role in the supervision or management of elections.
“Attempts to distort such statements into narratives of intimidation or political bias are not only reckless but also risk eroding public confidence in the institutions that are vital to national stability,” he concluded,” he said.
