Two-time presidential candidate Andyford Mayele Banda has announced that he will once again contest Zambia’s top office in the August 13, 2026 general elections, marking his third attempt at the presidency.
Banda, who will run under the People’s Alliance for Change (PAC), said his campaign will focus on empowering Zambians and protecting the country from foreign domination and exploitation.
In a statement, Banda said PAC remains committed to its founding mission and is ready to build on its political journey as it seeks to reshape Zambia’s economic direction.
“It’s time for PAC to carry on its path fighting for the empowerment and protection of Zambians within the country and from foreign domination and exploitation,” he said.
Banda first contested the presidency in 2016 at the age of 35, finishing fourth out of nine candidates. He later returned in 2021, where he again placed fourth, this time out of 16 candidates.
With his 2026 bid, Banda is set to compete against President Hakainde Hichilema and other contenders in the race to State House.
PAC, which has been in opposition since its formation in January 2016, says it has continued to build its electoral strength through participation in by-elections across the country.
During its convention held on September 4, 2025, the party re-elected Banda as president and endorsed him as its candidate for the 2026 general election.
Banda also revealed that the party will revive its 2021 campaign agenda, which had been paused due to unsuccessful attempts at forming alliances with other political players.
“However, PAC believes it’s time to reverse the economic order to ensure that Zambians have a significant role to play in the economy,” he said.
The PAC 2026 campaign will run under the slogan “This time, it’s time for Zambia,” with the party pledging to prioritise citizen participation in governance and economic development.
Check with Community House.
The witchdoctor you’re consulting has no practicing licence.
That statement is sickening.
Do these people weigh themselves? Look at how the incumbent has struggled with excuse after excuse.
On scales you mean? Kkkkk
He looks too heavy for state house eh? Check out our leadership:
Sata 79kg
Guy Scott 74kg
Lungu 76kg
Hakainde 76kg
Dont discourage even one less for incumbent is one vote less
Yayi baba one less is just a wasted vote. We have a system that supports spoilt votes. First Past The Post means you just need to get a thin margin over your next contender and you’re the president.
One thing about baby RB is that he practises clean issue based politics. He does not attack personalities. He would make a good President but his lack of resources and grassroot structures will disadvantage him. He will end up like Godfrey Miyanda. Nobody knows who else is in PAC.
But Zambians love fingerpointers accusers, threateners, dictators to be, vengeful politicians
People seem to have time and money to waste.