Hichilema to visit Harare for inaugural Zambia–Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission

President Hakainde Hichilema is set to undertake his first official State Visit to the Republic of Zimbabwe on 14 November 2025 at the invitation of President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, in a historic engagement marking the beginning of an upgraded framework of cooperation between the two countries.

The visit will centre on the inaugural session of the Zambia–Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission (BNC), which elevates the long-standing Joint Permanent Commission on Cooperation (JPCC) into a higher mechanism for strategic collaboration. The BNC aims to enhance bilateral coordination in areas such as trade, energy, transport, and infrastructure development, while also advancing political, social, and cultural relations between the two neighbouring states.

According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, President Hichilema’s visit signifies Zambia’s commitment to strengthening regional diplomacy and expanding cross-border partnerships that contribute to inclusive economic growth across Southern Africa.

The ministry said the new Bi-National Commission will serve as the main platform for the two Heads of State to review and guide implementation of joint programmes and initiatives agreed upon by their respective governments.
“The establishment of the BNC underscores the shared vision of Presidents Hichilema and Mnangagwa to promote bilateral cooperation, accelerate shared infrastructure projects, and foster economic integration between Zambia and Zimbabwe,” the statement read.

The BNC process will begin with a Meeting of Senior Officials on 12 November 2025, followed by a Ministerial Meeting on 13 November 2025 to finalise documentation and policy frameworks ahead of the high-level summit between the two Presidents. These preliminary sessions will form the technical foundation for the agreements expected to be signed during the inaugural Bi-National Commission.

The government said the Commission will focus on strategic sectors that hold long-term benefits for both nations, particularly in energy generation and transmission, cross-border trade facilitation, water resource management, and transport corridors.
“Zambia and Zimbabwe have shared assets of immense regional significance,” the statement added, citing the Kariba Dam, Victoria Falls, and joint transport infrastructure such as roads and railways that link the two economies.

The Ministry noted that both governments recognise the importance of harmonised policy approaches to unlock the full potential of these shared assets, especially in energy and tourism. “These are vital enablers of industrialisation and sustainable development that benefit not just Zambia and Zimbabwe but the wider SADC region,” it said.

Officials said the BNC represents a step forward in formalising economic diplomacy and fostering mutual investment opportunities, in line with President Hichilema’s policy of regional cooperation and open engagement. The visit is also expected to reaffirm Zambia’s role in promoting peace, stability, and integration within the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

In addition to economic priorities, the BNC will also discuss cross-border security cooperation, trade facilitation, environmental conservation, and cultural exchange.
Both nations are expected to review progress on existing bilateral agreements and outline new areas of partnership under the enhanced framework.

“The BNC embodies the enduring bonds of friendship, shared history, and mutual respect that unite Zambia and Zimbabwe,” the ministry said. “The two countries are bound not only by geography but also by cultural and familial ties that span generations. This relationship has remained strong through years of political transition and economic reform on both sides.”

Diplomatic analysts view this meeting as a major milestone in regional cooperation, noting that it places Zambia and Zimbabwe in a stronger position to leverage joint development opportunities under continental frameworks such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

The government emphasised that President Hichilema’s visit demonstrates Zambia’s unwavering commitment to advancing its foreign policy objectives through constructive engagement.
“President Hichilema’s approach to international relations continues to emphasise dialogue, partnership, and economic diplomacy as key drivers of inclusive growth,” the statement said. “This visit provides an opportunity to consolidate progress already made under the New Dawn administration’s regional and continental cooperation agenda.”

Officials also confirmed that the visit will include a state banquet in honour of President Hichilema hosted by President Mnangagwa, alongside ceremonial proceedings in Harare. Delegations from both countries will include ministers, technocrats, and business leaders tasked with steering the implementation of BNC resolutions.

The Ministry concluded that Zambia remains firmly committed to deepening its bilateral relations with Zimbabwe and pursuing development models rooted in mutual benefit. “We view this visit as a reaffirmation of the two countries’ shared aspirations for prosperity and progress, built upon trust, respect, and cooperation,” it said.

The Zambia–Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission will henceforth meet on a biennial basis, alternating between Lusaka and Harare, to review progress and refine implementation strategies in all areas of cooperation.

ECZ grants 15-day extension to voter registration drive

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has extended the ongoing nationwide voter registration exercise by 15 days, citing an encouraging turnout and mounting requests from stakeholders for additional time to accommodate citizens who had not yet registered.

Announcing the extension during a media briefing in Lusaka, ECZ Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis said the exercise will now run until November 26, 2025. She explained that the commission had taken into account both the progress made so far and logistical challenges faced by eligible voters across various regions.

“The Commission is satisfied that the circumstances warrant this extension,” she said. “This will be the final extension, and we urge all eligible citizens who have not yet registered to take advantage of this opportunity.”

Ms Zaloumis disclosed that as of November 10, over 1.6 million voters had been captured since the beginning of the exercise. She said the figure included 752,251 new registrations and 853,846 updates of voter records, alongside 351,206 male and 1,269,847 female registrants.

ECZ Chief Electoral Officer Brown Kasaro added that the highest number of new registrations was recorded in Southern Province, followed by North-Western and Western Provinces. He attributed the strong participation to increased public awareness and the accessibility of registration centres across districts.

Kasaro explained that the commission had established more mobile registration points and improved logistical support to remote areas. “We have responded to feedback from communities by increasing the number of kits and technicians assigned to under-served localities,” he said.

Ms Zaloumis noted that the ECZ’s decision was also influenced by recommendations from political parties, civil-society organisations, and religious bodies who asked for more time to mobilise eligible citizens. “We have listened to stakeholders, and we recognise the importance of ensuring that every qualified voter has the chance to participate in shaping the country’s democratic future,” she said.

The ECZ chief reaffirmed that the extended period would not compromise the integrity of the voter register, assuring the public that all verification, data-cleaning, and security checks would be completed within the new timeframe.

“The data management and quality-control teams are on schedule,” she said. “We are confident that the register will be ready for certification before the next electoral phase begins.”

Ms Zaloumis emphasised that the ECZ’s target was to reach more than two million registered voters by the close of the exercise. “This process is about ensuring inclusivity,” she said. “Every Zambian eligible to vote must seize this opportunity to have their voice heard at the ballot box.”

She reiterated the Commission’s commitment to transparency and accountability. “We invite observers, political parties, and media representatives to continue monitoring the process to maintain confidence in the electoral system,” she said.

Meanwhile, the ECZ encouraged citizens who had already registered in previous exercises but needed to update their details—such as changes in residence or correction of personal information—to do so before the new deadline.

“We have had cases where individuals assume that old details will automatically carry over,” Ms Zaloumis warned. “We urge all voters to confirm their registration status and ensure their information is current.”

She also reminded the public that registration is open to Zambians aged 18 years and above who possess valid national registration cards.

“Participation in elections is not only a right but a civic responsibility,” she said. “We call upon parents, churches, and communities to mobilise eligible young people who may be registering for the first time.”

The ECZ noted that the extension also aligns with logistical preparations for the 2026 general elections, allowing for data synchronisation across districts and continuous voter education.

“Extending this process is not about favouring any group,” Ms Zaloumis said. “It is about strengthening democracy through inclusion.”

Observers from the Civic and Voter Education Network commended the ECZ for heeding citizen calls. “This is a welcome gesture that enhances participation, particularly in rural areas where delays were reported due to rain and transport difficulties,” said a representative who attended the briefing.

In a separate interview, governance specialist Dr. Henry Kabwe described the ECZ’s decision as pragmatic. “It demonstrates that the Commission is responsive and adaptive to citizen realities,” he said. “More voters mean a stronger democratic mandate for any government elected in 2026.”

With the new 15-day window, all provinces are expected to continue operating registration centres daily, including weekends, until November 26. Mobile teams will remain deployed in remote areas, while provincial offices continue processing verification forms.

Ms Zaloumis concluded by urging political actors to encourage peaceful participation and avoid spreading false information about the process. “This exercise belongs to all of us. Let us protect its credibility,” she said.

“There is only one Patriotic Front,” – Chabinga

Patriotic Front (PF) faction Acting President Robert Chabinga has reaffirmed that the former ruling party remains one unified political organisation under a single, legally recognised leadership. Addressing party members and the media in Lusaka, he said claims of rival leadership structures were baseless and intended to destabilise the party ahead of the 2026 general elections.

Chabinga stressed that the PF is duly registered with the Registrar of Societies under one recognised leadership and that any individuals declaring themselves as alternative office-bearers are acting outside both the law and the party’s constitution. He said the PF’s immediate mission is to restore discipline, rebuild grassroots structures, and re-energise its national appeal rather than be consumed by internal quarrels.

“There is only one Patriotic Front,” Chabinga stated. “It is registered with the Registrar of Societies under the current leadership. Those claiming to lead other versions of the PF are misleading the public and violating party rules. Our focus is unity and renewal, not division.”

He explained that the central committee has launched a nationwide reorganisation programme across all ten provinces, aimed at reviving constituency and district structures, re-establishing contact with the grassroots, and recruiting new members who believe in the party’s founding principles.

According to Chabinga, the exercise is already bearing fruit, with coordinators and mobilisation teams deployed in several areas to strengthen internal cohesion. “Our party has gone through difficult seasons since 2021, but we are standing tall again,” he said. “Our strength is in our people, and our people are returning because they know the PF still stands for development, jobs, and service.”

He said the PF’s goal for 2026 is to present itself as a credible and organised opposition ready to govern again. Those spreading confusion, he warned, were only weakening democracy and indirectly helping the ruling UPND. “We cannot afford distractions,” he said. “Our eyes are fixed on 2026, and that requires discipline and a united voice.”

The PF President also warned that the party will not tolerate impersonation or unauthorised communication issued on its behalf. He said all official statements must come through the PF Secretariat and its designated spokespersons.

“We have seen individuals posting fake letters and statements on social media using the PF name,” he said. “Such behaviour is dishonest and punishable under our regulations. Anyone who continues to impersonate PF officials will face disciplinary action and possible prosecution.”

He added that impersonation and misinformation are being used to create a false picture of disorder within the opposition, but genuine members know the truth. “The PF is guided by its constitution,” he said. “Leadership comes through proper structures, not through Facebook posts or self-appointments.”

Chabinga reaffirmed his commitment to reconciliation, saying divisions can only be healed through dialogue and mutual respect. He disclosed that the central committee is already engaging senior figures and former officials to bring them back into the fold.

“This party belongs to all who sacrificed for it,” he said. “We are extending our hand to every genuine member who wants to contribute positively. But reconciliation must come with respect for the constitution and lawful authority.”

He emphasised that the PF’s door remains open to those who may have disagreed with its leadership, provided they acknowledge the legitimate structure. “Unity cannot be forced, but it can be nurtured,” he said. “Our duty is to rebuild, not exclude. The PF will rise again if we remember why it was formed  to serve the people.”

On legality, Chabinga reiterated that the PF remains duly registered with the Registrar of Societies, noting that leadership changes earlier this year were completed in line with national law. “The records are clear,” he said. “The PF is legally recognised and continues to function as one entity. There are no rival registrations or duplicates.”

He urged members to focus on substantive political work instead of arguments about legitimacy. “The court of public opinion will judge us by our actions, not our quarrels,” he said. “We must show maturity, organisation, and discipline as we prepare to return to government.”

Chabinga called on PF members to practice issue-based politics and uphold the party’s image in their communities. “The people are watching,” he said. “Zambians are looking for a credible alternative that understands governance and development. Let us show them that the PF remains that option.”

He reminded members that the opposition’s duty is to provide checks and balances, not public disputes. “We owe it to our members and to the nation to conduct ourselves responsibly. The PF has a legacy of infrastructure development and community empowerment. We must build on that foundation.”

Chabinga ended by urging members to stop “trading insults” on social media and instead focus on mobilisation at the grassroots. “The PF will not rebuild itself on Facebook,” he said. “It will rebuild itself in the townships, the compounds, and the villages where the people live and where our message still matters.”

His remarks drew applause from party supporters who attended the Lusaka event, many of whom welcomed his firm stance on legality and unity. The declaration comes amid ongoing speculation about the party’s internal cohesion after months of rival claims to leadership.

With Chabinga’s assertion of legitimacy, the Patriotic Front appears determined to close ranks, project a unified image, and position itself as a disciplined opposition force ready for the next general election.