Gov’t Assures Diplomatic Corps of Transparent August 2026 Elections
Minister of Justice and Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Princess Kasune, has reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to conducting free, fair and transparent elections ahead of the country’s August 2026 General Elections.
Speaking during a Ministerial Briefing for the African Diplomatic Corps held in Lusaka on Wednesday, Hon. Kasune said Zambia’s democratic credentials had remained strong since the restoration of multiparty democracy in 1991.
She stated that elections remain a cornerstone of democratic governance and are essential in creating a stable environment for economic growth and international cooperation.
Hon. Kasune welcomed international election observer missions interested in monitoring the 2026 polls, noting that their participation would strengthen the credibility, transparency and integrity of the electoral process.
The Minister further highlighted good governance, adherence to the rule of law and the inclusion of women, youths and persons with disabilities in electoral processes as key priorities for the Zambian Government.
She assured members of the Diplomatic Corps that Zambia would continue participating in election observation missions across Africa through regional and continental frameworks such as the African Union and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
According to Hon. Kasune, Zambia has consistently supported democratic electoral processes within the SADC region by participating in observer missions and standing in solidarity with neighbouring countries.
The Minister also assured diplomats that business operations would continue uninterrupted before, during and after the elections, particularly following Government’s recently approved 24-hour economy policy.
On foreign relations, Hon. Kasune reiterated Zambia’s commitment to diplomacy and dialogue as critical tools for resolving disputes and advancing shared global priorities. She said Zambia remained dedicated to strengthening bilateral and multilateral relations with countries that share its vision of peace, prosperity and sustainable development.
Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary for Administration at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Margaret N. Miyoba, said Zambia remained committed to fostering mutually beneficial partnerships with members of the Diplomatic Corps, including the African Group of Ambassadors and High Commissioners.
Ms Miyoba noted that Zambia and African diplomatic representatives share common interests, challenges and historical ties that continue to strengthen cooperation across the continent.
Speaking during the vote of thanks, Dean of the African Group of Ambassadors and High Commissioners and Ambassador of Zimbabwe to Zambia, Charity Angeline Charamba, expressed appreciation for the engagement, describing it as an important platform for addressing concerns within the diplomatic community.
Ambassador Charamba also commended Zambia for maintaining a peaceful environment under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema.
She further assured the Zambian Government that the African Group of Ambassadors and High Commissioners would continue supporting Zambia through participation in appropriate international election observer missions.
