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Government Signals New Large-Scale Solar Power Project

Lusaka Times Editor
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Government Signals New Large-Scale Solar Power Project

Government Signals New Large-Scale Solar Power Project

The Government has announced plans to introduce another mega solar power project as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen electricity generation capacity and improve energy security across the country.

According to the Times of Zambia, the planned project forms part of a broader strategy to diversify Zambia’s energy mix and reduce reliance on hydropower, which has faced pressure during periods of reduced rainfall. Authorities say expanding solar generation is critical to ensuring consistent electricity supply for households, businesses, and key economic sectors.

Zambia’s power system has historically depended heavily on hydroelectric generation. While hydropower remains a major component of the national grid, variability in water levels has exposed vulnerabilities, prompting government to accelerate investment in alternative energy sources. Solar power has emerged as a central pillar in this diversification drive.

Officials indicated that the new mega solar project is expected to add significant capacity to the national grid, supporting stability and reducing the risk of load management. Large-scale solar facilities are designed to feed directly into transmission networks, allowing power to be distributed across regions.

The project is also aligned with national development goals that emphasise sustainable energy, climate resilience, and private sector participation. Government has previously stated that renewable energy projects offer opportunities for investment, job creation, and technology transfer.

The Times of Zambia reports that preparatory work for the project includes feasibility assessments, site identification, and engagement with potential developers. While specific capacity figures and timelines were not disclosed in the initial announcement, officials said the project would meet international standards and integrate with existing infrastructure.

Solar energy projects have gained momentum in recent years, with Zambia commissioning several utility-scale installations and encouraging independent power producers to enter the market. These initiatives have contributed to improved generation diversity and reduced pressure on hydro assets.

Authorities noted that solar power provides advantages in terms of scalability and speed of deployment. Compared with large hydro projects, solar facilities can be developed in shorter timeframes, allowing capacity to be added more rapidly to meet growing demand.

The new mega solar project is expected to support economic activity by providing more reliable power to industrial zones, commercial centres, and rural communities connected to the grid. Stable electricity supply is viewed as a prerequisite for manufacturing growth, mining operations, and service delivery.

Government officials also highlighted the role of renewable energy in meeting environmental commitments. Expanding solar generation contributes to lower greenhouse gas emissions and aligns with regional and global efforts to transition toward cleaner energy sources.

The project forms part of a wider pipeline of energy investments aimed at modernising Zambia’s power sector. In addition to solar, authorities continue to explore options for thermal, wind, and other renewable technologies to balance the grid.

As demand for electricity continues to grow alongside population increase and economic expansion, energy planners say diversified generation sources are essential. The planned mega solar project is expected to play a role in meeting future demand while enhancing resilience against climate-related risks.

The Government maintains that expanding solar capacity is not only a response to current challenges but also a long-term investment in sustainable development and energy security.

Democracy Demonstrated in Chawama – Hichilema

Lusaka Times Editor
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Democracy Demonstrated in Chawama – Hichilema

Democracy Demonstrated in Chawama – Hichilema

President Hakainde Hichilema has described Zambia’s democratic process as thriving after congratulating the Forum for Democracy and Development and its candidate, Bright Nundwe, for winning the Chawama parliamentary by-election.

Speaking following the announcement of the final results, President Hichilema said the outcome of the Chawama vote reflected the strength of Zambia’s democratic institutions and the maturity of the country’s electoral culture. He noted that elections are designed to allow citizens to choose their representatives freely, and that the peaceful conduct of the by-election demonstrated public commitment to democratic principles.

The President extended his congratulations to the winning candidate and the FDD leadership, acknowledging that electoral contests inevitably produce winners and losers. He said acceptance of results is essential for national unity and political stability, adding that democracy functions best when all participants respect the will of the electorate.

President Hichilema also commended the people of Chawama for their participation in the electoral process, stating that voter engagement is central to democratic governance. He praised residents for exercising their civic rights peacefully and responsibly throughout the campaign period and on polling day.

The Head of State further acknowledged the role played by the Electoral Commission of Zambia in administering the by-election, as well as the Zambia Police Service and other security agencies for maintaining law and order. He said their professionalism contributed to an environment in which voters were able to cast their ballots without intimidation or disruption.

The Chawama parliamentary seat became vacant following the prolonged absence of the former Member of Parliament, leading to the declaration of a by-election. The vacancy attracted national attention, with multiple political parties contesting the seat amid heightened political interest.

FDD candidate Bright Nundwe emerged victorious after a competitive race, securing enough votes to defeat candidates from the ruling United Party for National Development and other opposition parties. The result marked a significant win for the FDD, which has sought to reassert its relevance within Zambia’s opposition political landscape.

President Hichilema noted that democratic progress is measured not only by electoral victories, but also by how political actors respond to defeat. He said peaceful acceptance of results reinforces confidence in institutions and strengthens democratic accountability.

The President reiterated that elections provide an opportunity for reflection and improvement, both for winners and those who do not succeed. He encouraged political parties to continue engaging citizens constructively and to focus on addressing issues affecting communities.

The Chawama by-election has been viewed as an indicator of voter sentiment in urban constituencies, where competition among parties remains strong. Analysts have noted that such contests highlight the importance of grassroots mobilisation and responsiveness to local concerns.

President Hichilema said the Government remains committed to upholding democratic values and ensuring that future elections continue to be conducted transparently and peacefully. He emphasised that respect for democratic outcomes is fundamental to national cohesion.

As attention turns toward preparations for the 2026 general elections, the President said the Chawama experience serves as a reminder of the responsibility borne by leaders to protect democratic institutions and respect the choices made by citizens.

UPND Says Chawama Loss Part of Democratic Process

Lusaka Times Editor
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UPND Says Chawama Loss Part of Democratic Process

UPND Says Chawama Loss Part of Democratic Process

The United Party for National Development has said its loss in the Chawama parliamentary by-election should not be interpreted as a broader political setback, stating that democratic systems inherently produce both victories and defeats.

In a statement following the declaration of results, UPND officials said elections are competitive by design and that no political party can expect to win every contest. The party stressed that the Chawama outcome reflects voter choice within a single constituency rather than a rejection of its national agenda.

The ruling party noted that democratic maturity is demonstrated through acceptance of electoral outcomes and respect for institutional processes. It said the peaceful conduct of the Chawama by-election underscored the strength of Zambia’s democratic framework.

UPND leaders acknowledged that the loss requires internal reflection and renewed engagement with constituents, particularly in urban areas where voter expectations remain high. They said the party would review campaign strategies and feedback from the electorate.

The Chawama by-election attracted significant attention due to its political context and the number of parties involved. The ruling party had invested considerable resources in the campaign, making the result a focal point of national discussion.

Despite the loss, UPND officials maintained that the party’s governance record remains intact and that development programmes underway across the country continue unaffected. They emphasised that parliamentary by-elections do not override the mandate granted through general elections.

The party also reiterated its commitment to democratic norms, stating that peaceful acceptance of results is essential for political stability. Leaders commended election authorities and security agencies for managing the process without incident.

UPND said it remains focused on service delivery and policy implementation, while recognising the importance of electoral competition in strengthening accountability.

The party concluded that democratic governance requires resilience and adaptability, both of which involve learning from electoral outcomes and responding constructively.

 

Munir Urges Opposition Unity From Prison Ahead of 2026 Elections

Lusaka Times Editor
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Munir Urges Opposition Unity From Prison Ahead of 2026 Elections

Incarcerated opposition figure Munir has issued a call for unity among opposition political leaders, warning that internal divisions and personal ambition could undermine prospects for regime change ahead of the 2026 General Elections.

Writing from prison, Munir reflected on Zambia’s 2001 general election, arguing that opposition disunity at the time played a decisive role in the victory of the Movement for Multi-Party Democracy (MMD). He said that had opposition leaders Ben Mwila and General Godfrey Miyanda set aside personal ambition and worked together, the election outcome would likely have been different.

Munir said the decision by the two opposition figures to contest the presidency separately split the opposition vote, allowing Levy Mwanawasa to win. He said voters were spread across competing opposition candidates, weakening their collective strength and handing victory to the ruling party.

He said the political environment today bears similarities to that period, with opposition politics again shaped by what he described as ego and self-centeredness. Munir said the opposition appeared fragmented, despite what he described as widespread public dissatisfaction with the current political order.

According to Munir, opposition leaders who believe they can defeat the ruling party individually were misreading the political reality. He said political change becomes easier when opposition groups unite, but said this required personal ambition to be subordinated to a collective objective.

Munir warned that unchecked ambition had consequences, stating that some opposition figures who believed they could challenge the ruling establishment alone were already finding themselves incarcerated. He said those currently free but driven by ego risked facing similar consequences in the future.

He said imprisonment had become a recurring experience for opposition figures in Zambia, arguing that divisions within opposition ranks made them vulnerable. Munir said political history showed that internal fragmentation often preceded electoral defeat and political repression.

Turning to the Patriotic Front (PF), Munir said it was no secret that the party had identifiable frontrunners with significant followings. He argued that the party’s chances of returning to government would be strengthened if its leading figures agreed to work together rather than pursuing individual presidential ambitions.

Munir cited Makebi Zulu and Brian Mundubile as examples of figures with substantial support bases within the PF. He questioned whether either could win a presidential election independently if both chose to contest separately.

He suggested that if the two leaders agreed to work as one, with one standing as presidential candidate and the other as running mate, the party would significantly improve its electoral prospects. Munir said such an arrangement would demonstrate maturity and commitment to winning power rather than personal advancement.

He said the discussion was necessary if the objective was to win elections and form government, but should be avoided if the aim was to undermine public aspirations. Munir said opposition leaders needed to reflect carefully on their decisions and consider the broader national interest.

He urged both Makebi Zulu and Brian Mundubile to independently assess their political choices without being influenced by emotionally charged supporters. Munir said political supporters were often driven by passion and loyalty, which could cloud judgment and obscure long-term consequences.

Munir quoted the Bible, citing Ecclesiastes 9:11, which states that success does not always go to the swift, the strong, or the wise, but is influenced by time and chance. He said current political circumstances appeared to favour two individuals and argued that others should consider yielding for the sake of unity.

He said a unified Patriotic Front would make it easier for other opposition parties to rally around a single front, creating a consolidated challenge to the ruling party in the 2026 elections.

Munir said failure to pursue unity would only benefit the ruling establishment and make electoral victory easier for them. He said opposition unity was not optional if meaningful political change was to be achieved.

He concluded by affirming his continued commitment to opposition politics and addressed the people of Chawama, stating that the spirit of resistance within the opposition remained alive despite imprisonment.

General “Mosquito” says the Chawama loss should be treated as a learning experience.

Lusaka Times Editor
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General “Mosquito” says the Chawama loss should be treated as a learning experience.

General “Mosquito” says the Chawama loss should be treated as a learning experience.

UPND National Youth Chairman Gilbert Liswaniso has described the party’s defeat in the Chawama parliamentary by-election as painful but instructive, saying the outcome has exposed areas that require correction ahead of the 2026 General Election.

Liswaniso said the party remained grateful to all stakeholders who participated in the campaign and stated that the experience had provided lessons that would shape future electoral engagements. He said the by-election offered an opportunity for internal review, particularly among party leaders in Lusaka and campaign teams that supported the process from other provinces.

He said the loss should not be treated lightly and noted that electoral outcomes often reflect both strengths and weaknesses in organisation, messaging, and ground mobilisation. Liswaniso stated that the party leadership was prepared to reflect on the outcome and identify areas that may have contributed to the defeat.

The UPND youth leader thanked President Hakainde Hichilema for the support rendered during the campaign period. He also expressed appreciation to UPND Chairperson Collins Maoma and Secretary General Batuke Imenda for their involvement in the campaign process.

Liswaniso further acknowledged the campaign team led by Isaac Zulu, the provincial leadership, and several party officials who took part in the by-election. He said their participation reflected collective effort and commitment within the party, despite the result not being in the party’s favour.

“We want to thank all those who did their best and played their part in this just-past by-election in Chawama,” Liswaniso said.

He admitted that the party leadership was not without fault and appealed for constructive criticism from party members and supporters. He said his leadership remained open to dialogue and accepted that mistakes may have been made during the campaign period.

Liswaniso said the party did not consider itself perfect and recognised that leadership required accountability, especially after an electoral loss. He stated that the party intended to learn from the experience and apply the lessons in future contests.

He identified the peaceful conduct of the campaign and the by-election as one of the key outcomes of the process. Liswaniso said voters were able to participate freely before, during, and after polling day, which he described as a positive reflection of democratic practice.

“Our success is the peace and freedom our people enjoyed during this campaign and after it,” he said.

Liswaniso congratulated Forum for Democracy and Development candidate Bright Nundwe on winning the Chawama parliamentary seat. He said the victory was achieved in a democratic environment and reflected the will of the voters who participated in the by-election.

He said the result should trigger serious internal reflection within the UPND, especially among leaders in Chawama, to assess factors that may have influenced voter decisions. Liswaniso said leadership at constituency level needed to review campaign strategies, engagement methods, and organisational structures used during the by-election.

He said political losses were often difficult to accept and acknowledged that many leaders preferred to distance themselves from defeat. Liswaniso stated that the UPND leadership was prepared to take responsibility for the outcome and accept blame where necessary.

“We know and understand that no one wants to associate themselves with a loss, but we take the blame,” he said.

Liswaniso said both winning and losing carried lessons within a democratic system and noted that electoral competition required humility, discipline, and continuous engagement with voters. He said the party would use the experience to improve its approach ahead of future elections.

Choppies–UNZA Management Programme launched

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Choppies–UNZA Management Programme launched

 Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts, Elvis Nkandu has launched the THINK Management Development Programme and witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) between retail chain Choppies and the University of Zambia (UNZA).

Mr Nkandu has described the partnership as a key step in advancing youth empowerment and job creation.

Speaking at the event in Lusaka, Mr Nkandu said the programme aligns with the Government’s priorities of human capital development, skills training and stronger public–private partnerships under President Hakainde Hichilema.

The media reports that Mr Nkandu said the government had placed young people at the center of Zambia’s economic agenda, citing initiatives such as free education from Grade 1 to 12, expanded access to higher education and efforts to link education to employment and entrepreneurship.

“The partnership between Choppies and the University of Zambia demonstrates how collaboration between the private sector and learning institutions can deliver meaningful results by preparing young people for the workplace,” Mr Nkandu said.

He pointed out that the THINK Management Development Programme will target both fresh graduates and existing Choppies employees, equipping them with skills in leadership, operations, customer service and the use of technology.

Mr Nkandu said this approach will help young people transition from the classroom into productive employment and management roles.

He noted that the retail and fast-moving consumer goods sector plays a significant role in Zambia’s economy by supporting local farmers and suppliers and creating jobs, particularly for young people entering the labour market for the first time.

“For this sector to continue growing, it needs trained managers and strong leaders. This programme is designed to build exactly that capacity,” Mr Nkandu said.

The Minister commended Choppies for investing in human capital and UNZA for partnering with industry to prepare students for the realities of the workplace.

Mr Nkandu also urged participants in the programme to work hard, remain disciplined and uphold integrity, saying the future of Zambia’s workforce depended on their commitment.

He reaffirmed the government’s support for skills development initiatives and partnerships that create jobs and stimulate economic growth.

University of Zambia(UNZA)  Vice Chancellor, Mundia Muya  said  the university  believes  strategic partnerships with  industry  players  such as Choppies   were  critical  in responding to  current  challenges  and preparing graduates  for real world  leadership roles .

Choppies Representative for the Country Head   for Choppies,    Sitamulaho Monde said the program will expose graduates to all practicalities of running a business.

Meanwhile, a beneficiary graduate, James Machamanda said the opportunity will expose them to practical leadership experience adding that strong leadership emanates from practical experience.

RTSA Appoints Bus Drivers as Road Safety Ambassadors

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RTSA Appoints Bus Drivers as Road Safety Ambassadors

The Road Transport and Safety Agency (RTSA) has appointed selected bus drivers in Lusaka as road safety ambassadors in a move aimed at reducing road traffic crashes and saving lives.

The Road Safety Ambassador Programme forms part of RTSA’s broader strategy to promote responsible road use and improve safety on the country’s roads.

RTSA Head of Public Relations Chilufya Mwelwa said the initiative targets drivers operating from Kulima Tower, Millennium, Lumumba and City Market bus stations, describing them as some of the most visible and influential road users due to the amount of time they spend on the roads.

Mwelwa noted that road traffic crashes continue to claim lives mainly as a result of human error, including speeding, drink-driving, fatigue, distraction and disregard for traffic regulations.

She explained that by appointing bus drivers as ambassadors, RTSA is placing responsibility in the hands of drivers whose conduct is frequently emulated by other motorists.

“This role is not ceremonial. It demands discipline, integrity and strict adherence to traffic laws. There is no tolerance for reckless driving, speeding, drink-driving, overloading or competing on public roads,” Mwelwa said.

She added that bus drivers operating in Lusaka carry greater responsibility due to heavy traffic congestion and the high number of pedestrians, who are often the most vulnerable to careless driving.

Mwelwa urged the appointed ambassadors to lead by example, discourage unsafe driving practices among their peers and prioritise safety over profit. She said that when bus drivers practise defensive driving and respect traffic laws, overall road discipline improves as other road users follow their example.

ECZ Demands Apology from Miles Sampa Over Alleged False Claims

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ECZ Demands Apology from Miles Sampa Over Alleged False Claims

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has demanded an apology from Matero Member of Parliament Miles Sampa over what it has described as false allegations, warning that failure to do so will result in legal action.

This follows claims circulating on social media and attributed to Mr Sampa, alleging that the Commission had set up a fake polling station along Lilayi Road for the Chawama parliamentary by-election. Mr Sampa is also alleged to have reported the matter to Chilanga Police Station.

However, ECZ Chief Electoral Officer Brown Kasaro has dismissed the allegations as false, misleading, and unfounded.

In a statement, Mr Kasaro clarified that there are 111 gazetted polling stations in Chawama Constituency, two of which are located at Mutason Shopping Centre along Lilayi Road and are operating in tents.

“Members of the public may also wish to know that all the 111 gazetted polling stations opened at 06:00 hours and will close at the official time of 18:00 hours,” Mr Kasaro said.

He added that the Commission found it concerning that such serious allegations could be made by a serving Member of Parliament without verification.

“These allegations were disseminated publicly in a manner that may cause unnecessary alarm, confusion and mistrust among voters and stakeholders,” Mr Kasaro said.

Hauptle Says Copper Queens Face Tough Group at 2026 WAfCON

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Hauptle Says Copper Queens Face Tough Group at 2026 WAfCON
Copper Queens head coach Nora Hauptle has acknowledged that Zambia has been drawn into a difficult group for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAfCON), scheduled to kick off in March in Morocco.

Zambia were eliminated at the quarterfinal stage of the previous WAfCON after suffering a 5–0 defeat to Nigeria, a team they are set to face again in the group stage of the upcoming tournament.

Following the draw conducted in Morocco, Zambia were placed in Group C alongside defending champions Nigeria, Egypt, and COSAFA rivals Malawi.

Speaking after witnessing the draw, Hauptle cautioned against underestimating Malawi and described Nigeria as a major challenge due to their status as reigning champions.

“We have a very tough group with Nigeria, the current champion, and we have Malawi also. Don’t underestimate Malawi. I think when we succeed in this group, then we’re going to get very strong in the knockouts,” Hauptle said.

The Swiss coach, who missed Zambia’s last two international friendly matches in Malawi, is expected to return in time to oversee preparations for the continental tournament.

Reflecting on Zambia’s previous encounter with Nigeria, Hauptle said facing the champions earlier in the competition presents a different challenge.

“Last time we lost against Nigeria, the current champions; this time we face them in the group stage. I am happy that we face them a bit earlier. I think it’s to find a good tactical key, and I think when we really survive this strong group, we’re going to get very confident in the knockout stage,” she said.

In Group A, hosts Morocco will compete against Algeria, Senegal, and Kenya. Group B features former champions South Africa, Burkina Faso, Tanzania, and Uganda. Group D includes Ghana, Cameroon, Mali, and Cape Verde.

Public schools urged not to force parents to buy uniforms from schools

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Public schools urged not to force parents to buy uniforms from schools

The Ministry of Education has called on all public schools across the country not to force parents to buy uniforms from schools for their children.

Ministry of Education Assistant Director and Head of Communications, Kunda Mando, says the free education policy aims to remove burdens like school fees and other requisites to ensure more access education.

In a statement to the media, Ms Mando stressed that the free education policy ensures that there are no fees, including, examination, feeding or user fees to be charged to parents or pupils, stating that frustrating the policy is detrimental to the government’s vision.

“Ministry of Education gives grants to schools every term to ensure that schools are running sustainably and therefore, government does not expect any teacher, Headteacher or school administration to charge for uniforms or any other school requirements,” she emphasised.

She says school authorities should allow parents to buy uniforms for the children from places where they can afford provided, they follow the correct color and design of the school uniform for that particular school.

Ms Mando has underscored that government’s vision is to see that every child in Zambia has access to free education without any hindrance from school authorities or anyone in society.

Government committed to restore peace in the SADC region

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Government committed to restore peace in the SADC region

Government has reaffirmed its commitment to regional and International efforts in restoring peace and security in the Southern African Development Community-SADC as well as the Great Lakes Region, citing dialogue as a key tool in these efforts.

Minister of Defence Ambrose Lufuma and his Democratic Republic of Congo counterpart, Minister of the Interior, Security, Decentralisation, and Customary Affairs, Jacquemin Shabani Lukoo jointly officially opened the 14th Session of the DRC and Zambia Joint Permanent Commission (JPC) on Defence and Security Ministerial Meeting being held in Lubumbashi.

ZANIS reports that Mr Lufuma noted that it is important that resolutions made by Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo following the Joint Permanent Commission Meeting, should be responsive to the security needs of the two nations and the region.

He expressed the need for peace and stability noting that it cannot be over emphasised especially with the growing economic activities between the two countries.

The Minister added that it is important that the two Defence forces from the bilateral nations intensify Joint security operations to neutralise common threats.

Mr Lufuma however emphasised the critical role of the JPC in curbing threats that undermine security in the two countries and beyond.

He further added that both countries should effectively explore various strategies that will positively contribute to the security as well as economic welfare of the two people.

“Our meetings should not be taken as a mere routine but a platform to support meaningful dialogue. We owe this much to our heads of state who have entrusted us with a huge responsibility to safeguard our countries, “he said.

Democratic Republic of Congo, Minister of the Interior, Security, Decentralisation, and Customary Affairs, Jacquemin Shabani Lukoo also highlighted that the DRC and Zambia share a relationship beyond the shared borders, emphasising that the two nations share a common history that binds them together.

Mr Lukoo noted that the JPC meeting will allow for the two countries to put in place security strategic measures in order to address common challenges.

He further paid tribute to the two heads of state of the two countries, President Hakainde Hichilema and his Congolese counterpart, Felix Tshisekedi for their commitment in fostering peace and enhancing bilateral relations.

Ndola High court frees four anti robbery police officers

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Ndola High court frees four anti robbery police officers

The Ndola High court has acquitted four anti robbery police officers from Mufulira Central Police station who were accused of killing a fellow anti robbery officer.

The four officers, Detective Sergeant Jameson Lundu, Detective Sergeant, Waluka Chilombe, Detective Sergeant Ben Siakalundu and Detective Sergeant Marvin Manda, were accused of killing Nason Simbeye, a police officer who was found dead in his house with bullet wounds and an AK 47 rifle in his hand on 23rd October, 2020 at Sikalangwe Police Camp in Mufulira District on the Copperbelt Province.

The media reports that the four officers were arrested and charged with murder following an inquest into Constable Simbeye’s death in the Mufulira Magistrate’s Court that ruled that the police officer did not die of suicide but was murdered.

But following trial for murder in the Ndola High Court, HigH Court Judge Winnie Mwenda, found the four officers innocent of the charge, citing insufficient evidence that linked them to the crime.

In her judgment yesterday, Justice Mwenda stated that while it was clear that Nason Simbeye was murdered, the prosecution had failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt that it was the four officers who killed him.

She further noted that no fingerprints were taken by police at the crime scene, which weakened the prosecution’s evidence.

Justice Mwenda added that no witness had seen the officers enter the deceased’s house prior to the body being discovered.

She stated that the prosecution had also failed to present proof of the call between Detective Sergeant Lundu and a taxi driver were the officer was alleged to have mentioned that Simbeye had committed suicide before the body was discovered.

Justice Mwenda stated that the evidence presented by the prosecution was circumstantial and witnesses presented before the court relied on hearsay as no recordings and call logs linking the officers to the crime were presented.

She stated that the burden of proof lies on the prosecution, which she said had failed to convince the court beyond reasonable doubt that the four officers killed Simbeye, hence acquitted all four of the charge.

Chitangala calls on women to contest in 2026 general elections

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Chitangala calls on women to contest in 2026 general elections

Lusaka Mayor, Chilando Chitangala has called on women to take up leadership and contest in the 2026 general elections, in order to have a country where the women’s voices are heard and shape national identity.

Speaking during the national networking event for female civic leaders, Lusaka Mayor, Chilando Chitangala says that women are architects of change, who are responsible for building a future of inclusive governance that inspires young people.

“Leadership is not about titles, it is about impact, it is about leaving a legacy that echoes beyond our tenure,” she said.

The media reports that Ms Chitangala urged the women to utilise the networking event to empower, inspire and equip themselves to drive meaningful change in their communities.

Canadian High Commission, Head of Office, Corry Van Gaal said that women prioritise education, health, and social protection that bring empathy, collaboration, and a deep sense of responsibility to governance.

“In Parliament, women hold 14.9% of seats, these numbers are not just statistics, they represent voices missing from the table, decisions made without the full perspective of society, and opportunities lost for progress,” she said.

Ms Gaal added that her country is proud to partner with Zambia in supporting women in politics, through the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), that focuses on gender equality and inclusive local governance.

The engagement was organised under the Partnerships for Municipal Innovation – Women in Local Leadership project (PMI-WILL) through the Local Government Association of Zambia (LGAZ).

Mark Simuuwe,Upnd, wake up and smell the coffee

Lusaka Times Editor
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Mark Simuuwe,Upnd, wake up and smell the coffee

Mark Simuuwe,Upnd, wake up and smell the coffee

By Moses Hakulipa Haalwiindi- UPND

Chawama did not merely elect a Member of Parliament. It exposed, with uncomfortable clarity, where Zambian politics now stand and where they must go.

It is therefore deeply disappointing to see senior UPND figures respond to this moment with triumphal language that borders on arrogance and political amnesia. Mark Sumuuwe’s message — “Congratulations Hon. Bright Nundwe for winning the Chawama Constituency by-election. Congratulations FDD!” — mirrors the tone of the President’s official statement: polite, polished, and strategically dismissive of the real political forces that shaped the result.

The President’s message congratulates FDD and its candidate, applauds UPND, thanks institutions, and speaks broadly about democracy and peace. On the surface, it reads statesmanlike. Politically, it sends a troubling signal. It downplays the Tonse Alliance dynamic and continues to promote the illusion that the Patriotic Front has been politically neutralised.

Truth be told, without PF’s influence, mobilisation, and organisational muscle, the Chawama seat would not have been won by FDD. That is not an insult to FDD. It is political reality. Bright Nundwe is a PF product. His candidature under the FDD ticket was a tactical response to legal obstruction, not a conversion of political identity. Voters understood this clearly. Pretending otherwise insults their intelligence.

PF did not contest this by-election on its own ticket not because it is dead, but because the courts have been turned into political playgrounds. Any PF candidate would have been dragged into endless litigation. So PF adapted, as living political movements always do, and supported a candidate under a different banner. Zambians understood exactly what that meant. They were not voting for a logo. They were voting for a political movement that refuses to disappear simply because documents are contested at the Registrar of Societies.

A political party is not ink on paper. It is people in wards, polling districts, compounds, markets, and churches. In Chawama, PF did not merely survive. It asserted continued relevance.

For UPND figures to posture as if this result represents the burial of PF is therefore reckless. The ruling party has actively meddled in PF internal affairs and extended that interference across the broader opposition space. To now suggest political extinction is to tell Zambians, straight to their faces, that PF is finished. That narrative may comfort party strategists, but it does not align with reality on the ground.

Even the repeated celebration of “peaceful campaigns” demands honesty. The relative calm in Chawama was not the product of superior leadership or a transformed political culture. It was restraint. History shows that during the PF era, UPND often positioned itself as the aggressor, initiating confrontations it could not sustain, frequently to paint PF as violent. From exaggerated gassing claims to amplified narratives of chaos, mudslinging has long been part of the strategy. That approach did not work in Chawama. The response now appears to be denial rather than reflection.

UPND also poured money into this election. Votes were openly courted with gifts. That is a reality of Zambian politics. People accepted those gifts. But when the ballot was cast, arithmetic delivered its verdict. Money was not enough. Those bought were not enough. Even against a fragmented opposition, UPND still lost. Just to Borrow from my Opposition Collegue Brian Matambos write up

That fact alone should trouble anyone who believes political dominance can be purchased.

The deeper story is unavoidable. FDD, backed by PF, secured 8,085 votes. CF obtained 1,534. Independent candidates collectively garnered 894. NCP recorded 319. EPPP had 239. LM secured 100. NDC posted 93. Combined, opposition candidates amassed 11,264 votes. UPND managed 6,542.

This means a fragmented, uncoordinated opposition defeated UPND by 4,722 votes. In percentage terms, over sixty-two percent of participating voters voted against the ruling party. Had the opposition rallied behind a single candidate, this would not have been competitive. It would have been a landslide. Fragmentation did not cost the opposition Chawama. It saved UPND from embarrassment.

Yet even in defeat, another warning emerges. Out of 93,124 registered voters, only 18,096 turned out. More than eighty percent stayed away. That is not apathy. It is political withdrawal. A silent referendum on the circumstances under which this by-election was forced upon the country.

The seat was declared vacant while the Lungu family was still in mourning and while litigation initiated by the Zambian government in South Africa remained unresolved. Many citizens did not view this by-election as a democratic necessity. They saw it as political pursuit. Staying away became protest.

When the ballot box feels partisan, democracy loses participation.

Chawama has therefore delivered more than a result. It has delivered a warning. UPND has lost a seat. More dangerously, it has lost moral ground in an urban constituency. FDD has won a seat, but within a protest environment that speaks more about resistance than celebration.

Now comes the 2026 reality check. UPND enters the election cycle with Southern Province effectively secured a head start of over one million votes. That is not speculation. It is arithmetic. The opposition begins already trailing.

Such a deficit is not overcome with pride. Not with parallel egos. Not with multiple candidates. It is overcome with unity.

Chawama has shown the formula. A fragmented opposition still defeated UPND. A united opposition would have crushed it.

This is why the roles played by Given Lubinda, Miles Sampa, Lawrence Sichalwe, and Chishimba Kambwili matter. They did not lead with slogans. They led with organisation. They went into the ground. They understood the voter. And they delivered a result. Once again, PF demonstrated it still possesses political heavyweights who know how to win elections, not debates.

Their leadership was not symbolic. It was effective. That reality must now force a national conversation — not about who is bigger, not about entitlement, but about what Zambia needs.

Chawama has made one thing painfully clear: UPND cannot defeat the opposition. Only the opposition can defeat itself. If it continues to do so, 2026 will belong to UPND by default not because UPND is invincible, but because its opponents refused to unite.

But if the lesson of Chawama is taken seriously, if egos are subordinated to strategy and ambition disciplined by purpose, then 2026 is not a dream. It is achievable.

Chawama has written the opening paragraph.
The rest is now up to us.

A message from the home of Edgar Chagwa Lungu in Chawama

Lusaka Times Editor
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3
A message from the home of Edgar Chagwa Lungu in Chawama

A message from the home of Edgar Chagwa Lungu in Chawama

By Brian Matambo | Chawama, Lusaka

Chawama did not just elect a Member of Parliament. It exposed, with uncomfortable clarity, where Zambian politics now stand and where they must go.

To start with, the Patriotic Front did not contest this by-election on its own ticket not because PF is dead, but because the courts have been turned into political playground. Any PF candidate would have been dragged into court endlessly. So, PF did what living political movements have always done in history. It adapted and supported a candidate on the FDD ticket. And the voters understood exactly what that meant. They were not voting for a logo. They were voting for a political movement that refuses to disappear simply because documents are contested at the Registrar of Societies.

A political party is not ink on paper. It is people in wards, polling districts, compounds, markets and churches. PF did not only survive in Chawama, but it has asserted its continued relevance.

UPND poured money into this election. They tried to buy votes. But the people in Chawama remembered the song by the Great Dandy Crazy, MHSRIEP, Donchi Kubeba. So people accepted the gifts. That is the reality of politics in our nation. But when the ballot was finally cast, the arithmetic delivered its verdict. The money was not enough. Those who were bought were not enough. Even against a fragmented opposition, UPND still lost.

That alone should trouble anyone who believes political dominance can be purchased.

The results make the deeper story unavoidable. FDD, backed by PF, obtained 8,085 votes. CF secured 1,534. Independent candidates together collected 894. NCP added 319. EPPP contributed 239. LM had 100. NDC recorded 93. When these opposition votes are placed together, they total 11,264. UPND managed 6,542.

This means the opposition, fragmented and uncoordinated, defeated UPND by 4,722 votes. In percentage terms, more than sixty-two percent of the participating electorate voted against UPND. If the opposition had worked together behind one candidate, this would not have been a competitive election. It would have been a landslide. The margin would not have been symbolic. It would have been humiliating.

Fragmentation did not cost the opposition this seat. It saved UPND from embarrassment.

And yet, even in victory, the numbers are sobering. Out of 93,124 registered voters, only 18,096 participated. More than 80% of registered voters stayed away. That is not indifference. That is political withdrawal. It is a silent referendum on the circumstances under which this by-election was forced upon the nation.

This seat was declared vacant while the Lungu family was still in mourning, and while litigation initiated by the Zambian government in South Africa remained unresolved. Many citizens did not see this by-election as a democratic necessity. They saw it as a continuation of political pursuit. Staying away became, for many, a form of protest.

The ballot box did not feel neutral. And democracy, when it feels partisan, loses participation.

What Chawama has therefore delivered is not just a result, but a warning. UPND has lost a seat. But more dangerously, it has lost moral ground in an urban constituency. FDD has won a seat, but inside a protest environment that speaks more about resistance than celebration.

And now we must face the 2026 question honestly. UPND enters 2026 with Southern Province effectively secured. That is a starting advantage of over one million votes. That is not a theory. It is arithmetic. The opposition begins the race already trailing.

You do not defeat such a headstart with pride. You do not defeat it with parallel egos. You do not defeat it with multiple candidates. You defeat it with unity.

Chawama has shown us the formula. A fragmented opposition still defeated UPND. A united opposition would have crushed it.

This is why the roles played by Given Lubinda, Miles Sampa, Lawrence Sichalwe and Chishimba Kambwili in Chawama matter. These men did not lead with speeches. They led with organisation. They went into the ground. They understood the voter. And they delivered a result. Once again, they demonstrated that PF still possesses political heavyweights who know how to win elections, not debates.

Their leadership in Chawama was not symbolic. It was effective. That reality should now force a national conversation among opposition leaders, supporters and strategists. Not about who is bigger. Not about who deserves what. But about what Zambia needs.

Chawama has made something painfully clear. UPND cannot beat the opposition. Only the opposition can beat itself. And if it continues to do so, 2026 will belong to UPND by default. Not because UPND is invincible, but because its opponents refused to unite.

But if the lesson of Chawama is taken seriously, if egos are subordinated to strategy, if ambition is disciplined by purpose, then 2026 is not a dream. It is a reachable outcome.

Chawama has already written the opening paragraph of that story. The rest is now up to us.

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