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.

Police arrest 27 in Chingola unrest probe

The Government has moved swiftly to identify and apprehend individuals behind the violent disturbances in Chingola that left property damaged and several people injured over the weekend. Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister Jack Mwiimbu confirmed that security wings have intensified investigations and already arrested 27 suspects believed to be the ringleaders.

Mr Mwiimbu, who toured Chingola with senior security officials, described the incident as an organised breach of public order intended to incite lawlessness and undermine the rule of law. He said police recovered offensive materials, including catapults and crude weapons, used by the mob that clashed with officers.

“The Government will not tolerate such lawless conduct,” he said. “Those involved will face the full weight of the law. No one should imagine they can challenge the authority of the State through anarchy.”

He explained that the Ministry’s intelligence units were working around the clock to track down remaining suspects. “Security agencies are closing in on every individual who took part. We have footage and witness statements that will lead to further arrests,” he said.

According to Mr Mwiimbu, preliminary findings show that the rioters were mobilised through social-media groups and unfounded rumours concerning small-scale mining rights on the Copperbelt. “There is a tendency among some groups to spread false information suggesting ownership disputes at certain mining sites. That misinformation is what triggered this unnecessary confrontation,” he said.

Copperbelt Province police commander Peace Wamunza confirmed that officers were maintaining a heavy presence in and around Chingola to prevent a recurrence of violence. “We are continuing patrols and monitoring all identified flashpoints. The situation is under control,” she said.

She urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement by reporting anyone suspected of participating in the riots. “Communities must help us protect peace. The violence that took place endangered lives, including those of innocent bystanders,” Ms Wamunza said.

Mr Mwiimbu added that several suspects would appear in court soon, and warned that habitual trouble-makers who attempt to politicise criminal behaviour would not find sympathy. “Breaking the law cannot be justified by any political or economic grievance,” he said. “The Constitution provides lawful ways of addressing disputes. Violence is not one of them.”

He reminded citizens that the Government has a responsibility to safeguard life and property. “We will act decisively against anyone who threatens public safety. No group or individual is above the law,” he said.

The minister also used the opportunity to commend police officers for professionalism under difficult conditions. “You know your duty. Continue performing it with firmness but without fear or favour,” he told officers stationed in Chingola.

President Hakainde Hichilema, who was briefed on the situation, expressed concern about recurring acts of disorder and instructed the security services to ensure accountability. “Our Government believes in freedom, but freedom must operate within the law. Those who resort to violence will answer for their actions,” he said through his press aide.

Meanwhile, civic and religious leaders have condemned the unrest. In a joint statement, the Chingola District Clergy Fellowship said lawlessness was incompatible with the values of peace and dialogue. “We call on citizens to remain calm and allow justice to take its course,” the group stated.

On the opinion page of the same edition, veteran commentator Jack Kalala wrote that the violence had “no justification whatsoever,” describing the event as a reckless assault on the rule of law. He argued that grievances over employment or resource access could never legitimise anarchy. “Those who planned and executed this disturbance put the entire community at risk. Zambia’s democracy cannot thrive amid mob rule,” he wrote.

Kalala’s column reflected a wider national sentiment that political competition and economic hardship must not be used to excuse disorder. Social commentators have urged that all parties, whether supporters or critics of Government, must reject violence as a means of expression.

At the same time, residents interviewed by the Daily Mail said they welcomed the arrests but appealed for long-term engagement to address unemployment and youth frustration in the mining towns. One resident, Teddy Mutale, said: “People need jobs and dialogue, not stones and tear gas. But whoever organised the chaos should be punished.”

Business owners in Chingola’s central market area are counting their losses after several stalls were vandalised. “We lost goods worth thousands of kwacha,” said a trader who preferred anonymity. “We just want peace so we can work.”

By late Tuesday, calm had returned to the town. Police checkpoints remained in place as investigators traced individuals captured on video looting nearby shops. Authorities have promised compensation procedures once assessments of damage are completed.

The Chingola incident has reignited debate about civic responsibility and the need for stronger community policing. Civil-society groups have echoed Government’s warning that no grievance should ever escalate into confrontation with law enforcement.

As of press time, all 27 arrested suspects were being processed for court appearances on charges ranging from malicious damage to assaulting police officers. Government officials say more arrests are expected as investigations expand.

For now, the message from Lusaka is clear: the State will act firmly to preserve peace while encouraging lawful dialogue to resolve disputes. The rule of law, Mr Mwiimbu said, remains the cornerstone of national stability and economic progress.