AGP Executive Report

Presidential Inauguration: Hakainde Hichilema was sworn in for a second five-year term at Heroes Stadium in Lusaka, pledging to be a “servant President” for all Zambians and to move from economic stabilisation to growth under the Grow Zambia Agenda with targets like 10 million tonnes of maize and 10,000MW of power. Election Fallout & Rule of Law: The swearing-in came as opposition leader Brian Mundubile and running mate Makebi Zulu faced treason charges and were detained, while observers and EU officials pointed to irregularities in tallying and verification. Unity Calls: Regional and traditional voices, including Kenya’s Ruto and the Barotse Royal Establishment, urged Zambians to accept results peacefully and keep political competition from turning into conflict. International Diplomacy: Leaders including Namibia’s Nandi-Ndaitwah, Zimbabwe’s Mnangagwa and Kenya’s Ruto attended, with the EU congratulating HH and promising continued partnership. Human Rights & Ceremony Details: Human rights commissioner Laura Miti criticised the choice of music (“Ba Pompwe”) during the inauguration, adding to scrutiny around the political climate.

Presidential Inauguration Amid Disputed Vote: Hakainde Hichilema was sworn in for a second term at Heroes Stadium on Tuesday, but the ceremony is shadowed by reports of serious irregularities in the August 13 election, including alleged vote-tally manipulation, court closures, and military presence at key points; his main rival, Brian Mundubile, is in prison on treason charges. Unity Message: After taking the oath, Hichilema urged rivals to stay in politics as competitors, not enemies, saying the campaign is over and national work must begin. Treason Case Escalates: Mundubile and running mate Makebi Zulu were charged after surrender following a security crackdown that opposition leaders say targeted them unfairly. Election Petitions and ECZ Scrutiny: Analysts and opposition figures continue to argue over whether parliamentary and local petitions should proceed, with concerns raised about the fairness of the process and access to courts. Regional Diplomacy for the Swearing-In: Leaders including Kenya’s William Ruto, Zimbabwe’s Emmerson Mnangagwa, Tanzania’s Samia Suluhu Hassan, Botswana’s Duma Boko, Namibia’s Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, and Eswatini’s deputy prime minister attended, while the EU congratulated Hichilema and pointed to its election observation mission. Security and Public Order: Police warned citizens against incitement and unlawful social media content ahead of and during the inauguration. Economy and Investor Mood: Despite political turmoil, investors remain upbeat on Zambia’s outlook, tied to copper gains and expectations of a renewed IMF anchor. Trade and Minerals Push: India resumed talks with Zambia on copper and critical minerals investment, while Southern African customs administrations agreed to link systems to cut border delays and logistics costs. Climate Warning: Zambians were cautioned to prepare for a strengthening El Niño and a drier-than-normal 2026/27 rainy season.

Inauguration Watch: Zambia heads into President Hakainde Hichilema’s second-term swearing-in at National Heroes Stadium on Tuesday, with President Mnangagwa expected to attend and Zambia Police issuing road-closure and traffic-diversion warnings for Lusaka. Political Tensions: The treason case against opposition leader Brian Mundubile, running mate Makebi Zulu and 16 others deepened as they were transferred to Mukobeko Maximum Security Prison, after police recorded warn-and-caution statements and linked the probe to an alleged militia and weapons recovery. Courtroom Battles: UPND filed petitions seeking nullification of parliamentary results in Muchinga (Chinsali Central and Shiwangandu), while other candidates also raised allegations of violence and missing election forms even where they chose not to petition. Opposition Voices: Tonse Alliance secretary general Dr Chris Zumani Zimba urged dialogue and restraint, warning Zambia is “bleeding” and needs healing, while President–New Heritage Party Chishala Kateka said there is “no need for unity” as a political slogan. US-Zambia Links: US Assistant Secretary of State Frank Garcia arrived in Lusaka ahead of the inauguration, with Washington pushing “trade over aid” and possible new cooperation on mining and health. Economy & Governance: Ahead of the new term, Socialist Party leader Fred M’membe launched a reform manifesto calling for cutting the size of government and shifting parts of parliamentary and council work to digital hubs. Food & Environment: A Malawi workshop highlighted using indigenous food trees in East Africa to fight malnutrition and biodiversity loss, pushing beyond fast-growing timber species.

Inauguration Countdown: Zambia has declared Tuesday, 1 September 2026 a public holiday for President-elect Hakainde Hichilema and Vice-President-elect Mutale Nalumango’s swearing-in at National Heroes Stadium, with defence and security chiefs saying preparations are complete and urging carpooling due to limited parking. Treason Case Escalates: Opposition leader Brian Mundubile and running mate Makebi Zulu were formally charged with treason alongside 16 others, after police said weapons and tactical gear were recovered in a Lusaka raid; the case is non-bailable and will be heard by the High Court. Court and Election Petitions: The Zambian Civil Liberties Union says election petitions should not be treated as automatic wins, while UPND continues nationwide challenges to ECZ results and critics question the consistency of how institutions are being treated. Government Revenue Push: Consultations for the 2027–2031 Medium-Term Revenue Strategy begin 3 September in Lusaka, aiming to boost domestic revenue, improve compliance, and reduce reliance on borrowing. Health & Security Policy: Government called for stronger healthcare-associated infection surveillance across Africa and urged greater investment in conflict prevention mechanisms at the AU. Economy & Jobs Narrative: State officials say inflation has eased to 6.2% and outline second-term targets under the 10-10-5-3-3-1-1 framework.

Inauguration Logistics: Zambia’s Government has declared Tuesday, 1 September 2026 a public holiday for President-elect Hakainde Hichilema and Vice-President-elect swearing-in at National Heroes Stadium, with officials urging invitees to carpool due to limited parking. Judiciary Independence: Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha says the Judiciary is powerful and independent, warning against perceptions that it can be controlled by other arms of government. Election Petitions: Petitions have been filed so far to challenge election results across multiple seats, including Lusaka mayoral, Kalabo South, Ndola Central, Kasama Central, Bwana Mkubwa, Mwandi, Bangweulu, Nkana, Siavonga, Lubansenshi, Mpulungu South, Kabushi, Zambezi Central, Chingola West and Mwense. Treason Case Escalates: Opposition leader Brian Mundubile and running mate Makebi Zulu have been formally charged with treason, with reports they were transferred to Mukobeko Maximum Security Prison; police also dismissed claims that lawyers were blocked from visiting detainees. Court Timing Dispute: Legal voices continue to debate the Constitutional Court process after courts were closed during the petition period. Traditional Leadership Pay: UPND alliance member Charles Chanda backs calls to increase chiefs’ allowances, arguing headmen also carry heavy dispute-resolution duties. Inauguration Prep: Defence and security chiefs inspected the stadium and say preparations for the ceremony are on course.

Treason Case Deepens: Zambia’s opposition leader Brian Mundubile and running mate Makebi Zulu have been formally charged with treason after their arrest and detention at Lusaka Central Police Station, following a disputed 13 August presidential election and a deadly security raid linked to the case; police also rejected claims that lawyers were blocked from visiting the detainees. Court and Democracy Tensions: As the presidential petition process and election challenges continue, legal groups and observers warn that court closures and procedural disputes could undermine constitutional rights, while FODEP urges aggrieved candidates to bring well-supported cases. Inauguration and International Backing: Zambia is preparing for President Hakainde Hichilema’s 1 September swearing-in, with the World Economic Forum and other international leaders sending congratulations, even as Mo Ibrahim cautions against post-election arrests and rights abuses. Election Scrutiny Beyond Lusaka: Transparency International Zambia flags irregularities across 32 constituencies, and the ECZ’s handling of the Mandevu parliamentary rerun remains contested. Food Security Move: FRA says it will export only surplus maize to Kenya after talks on large-scale shipments, aiming to protect local availability.

Treason Charges & Election Fallout: Police have formally charged NRPUP presidential candidate Brian Mundubile, running mate Makebi Zulu and 16 others with treason, with lawyer Milner Katolo saying the total accused now stands at 18, as the post–August 13 dispute deepens. Court Scrutiny & Petitions: As the High Court receives more challenges, UPND losing candidate Sibeso Sefulo has petitioned to nullify independent MP Iris Kaingu’s Mwandi win, while Bernard Mpundu has filed a Kasama Central petition; meanwhile, ZCLU questions ECZ’s legal basis for a fresh Mandevu parliamentary election after an attack at the totalling centre. Mandevu Political Pressure: Green Party leader Peter Sinkamba urges ECZ to extend the Mandevu fresh poll to mayoral and councilor races, arguing the same electoral problems could have affected local results. Transparency Watch: Transparency International Zambia says 32 constituencies need transparent review after monitors recorded procedural irregularities and gaps in ECZ communication. Regional Diplomacy & Inauguration: World Economic Forum and Botswana’s president have congratulated Hichilema on re-election, while China confirms a special envoy will attend the September 1 inauguration. Food & Health Updates: FRA has paid over K6 billion to maize farmers, and government has tightened cattle movement restrictions in FMD-affected Matabeleland areas.

Election Integrity & Courts: ECZ says it will hold a fresh parliamentary election in Mandevu after an attack on the totalling centre destroyed result transmission kits and prevented declaration of results, while Transparency International Zambia urges ECZ to publish polling-station results for independent scrutiny. Opposition Treason Case: Police detained opposition leader Brian Mundubile and running mate Makebi Zulu after they surrendered following a disputed Aug 13 vote; police warn against unlawful protests ahead of President Hakainde Hichilema’s Sept 1 inauguration, and church mother bodies deny handing the duo to police, saying they were handed to lawyers. Inauguration Diplomacy: China will send special envoy Xian Hui to attend Hichilema’s swearing-in at Heroes Stadium, underscoring deepening Zambia–China ties. Economy & Debt: Government says external debt-service payments have dropped to about US$900m per year after restructuring, easing pressure on public finances. Food Security: Zambia begins talks to export about 10.8 million bags of maize to Kenya to cover a harvest shortfall. Digital & Regional Policy: DCO approved eight countries’ bids to join as member states, including Zambia, expanding its digital-economy footprint.

Election Petitions: Losing candidates are rushing to court after Zambia’s Aug. 13 polls, with Nkana MP Alexander Chiteme’s win challenged over alleged fraud, violence and intimidation, while other seats including Kalabo South, Bangweulu, Siavonga, Zambezi Central and Ndola Central face petitions citing irregularities. Mandevu By-Election: ECZ has ordered a fresh parliamentary election in Mandevu after an attack destroyed results transmission kits and disappeared election documentation, leaving the returning officer unable to declare results. Treason Case Fallout: Opposition leader Brian Mundubile and Makebi Zulu are in police custody over alleged treason linked to plans to form a militia, with UN and church mediation efforts now clarified by church mother bodies as a neutral handover process. Inauguration Security: Police IG Graphael Musamba warns of planned unlawful protests ahead of President Hakainde Hichilema’s Sept. 1 swearing-in and says anyone mobilising or supporting illegal gatherings will be dealt with firmly. Economy & Debt: Zambia’s external debt-service is projected to drop to about US$900m from 2026, freeing fiscal space as inflation eases toward the target range and the government pushes a second-term focus on cost of living and jobs. International Diplomacy: UK Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband says the UK looks forward to working with Hichilema, while Namibia’s president also congratulates the re-elected leader and urges strengthened democratic institutions.

Treason Probe Deepens: Zambia Police have recorded “warn and caution” statements from opposition leader Brian Mundubile and running mate Makebi Zulu, then moved them into custody as treason investigations intensify after the disputed 13 August election. UN Mediation Fallout: A UN envoy’s Lusaka mediation ended without an agreement, and the UN’s handover of the duo to Zambian authorities has sparked fresh debate over whether the UN’s protection was justified. Courts Closure Row: The Law Association of Zambia and other voices are demanding clarity on how the three-day court shutdown affected access to justice and election petition timelines. Inflation Eases: Zambia’s annual inflation fell to 6.2%, within the central bank’s target band, as President Hichilema points to improved economic stability. Mining Push: Government is finalising regulations for a Small-Scale Mining Fund to boost artisanal output, while NMB says it is expanding productive-sector lending, especially mining. Local Digital Services: Sinazongwe Town Council goes digital under Smart Zambia, upgrading how residents access council services. Agriculture in Schools: The Presidential Irrigation Initiative for Schools begins in Lusaka, with demonstration maize fields to build year-round farming skills.

Treason Probe in Lusaka: Zambia’s main opposition leader Brian Mundubile and running mate Makebi Zulu have been handed over to police after seeking refuge at the UN, and are now in custody at Lusaka Central Police after “warn and caution” statements tied to alleged treason linked to a Kabulonga security raid that killed former Transport minister Mutotwe Kafwaya. Due Process Pressure: Church mother bodies and the Law Association of Zambia are calling for humane treatment and clearer explanations after the judiciary’s three-day closure disrupted access to urgent legal remedies. Election Fallout at Court: With President Hakainde Hichilema’s swearing-in expected on 1 September, opposition figures and the AU are urging intervention, while Lusaka mayoral candidate Gabriel Kibombwe has petitioned to challenge the ECZ-declared win of UPND’s Mwewa Chitambala. Economy Watch: Zambia’s August inflation eased to 6.2%, and State House links the drop to discipline, lower borrowing costs and investor confidence. Regional Context: International leaders and the Commonwealth sent goodwill messages to Hichilema as tensions continue to simmer.

Post-Election Courts Crisis: Zambia’s courts, including the Constitutional Court, were shut on security grounds during the presidential petition window, with the Attorney General urging the public not to question the closure and saying courts are expected to reopen as the threat de-escalates. UN Handover to Police: The UN has agreed to surrender opposition presidential candidate Brian Mundubile and running mate Makebi Zulu to Zambia Police for interrogation at the Law Enforcement Agencies Command Centre, ending a tense standoff after a Kabulonga raid that killed former minister Mutotwe Kafwaya. Due Process and Detentions: Legal groups and opposition figures are pressing for clarity on access to justice and the treatment of detained supporters, while civil society calls for police updates on security at key government institutions. Economy and Markets: Investors piled into Zambia’s government bonds after Hichilema’s re-election, with the first post-election auction oversubscribed by about 37%, and the IMF plus regional partners congratulated the President. Budget Timeline: Zambia’s 2027 National Budget is expected within 90 days of Hichilema’s swearing-in on September 1. Transport Spotlight: The Ministry of Transport backs the 16th Lusaka Motor Show (Aug 28–30) as part of broader transport and logistics planning, including a new 10-year transport policy review.

Zambia Post-Election Tensions: Opposition claims it was blocked from filing a presidential petition after courts were shut nationwide, while the judiciary says no petition was formally received by the deadline—raising fresh constitutional questions ahead of President Hakainde Hichilema’s Sept 1 swearing-in. Diplomatic Reassurance: Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa told the diplomatic corps Zambia remains committed to constitutionalism and the rule of law, even as he acknowledged concerns around election conduct and a brief tabulation suspension. IMF and China Engagement: The IMF congratulated Hichilema and pledged continued support, as a Chinese envoy met the President in Lusaka—signalling business as usual for key economic partners. Youth and Energy Politics: A Chinese firm donated 100 fuel tankers to boost youth participation in Zambia’s petroleum sector, while separate reporting warns copper expansion will hinge on urgent power supply upgrades. Local Security: Police recovered a stolen ECZ laptop in Mandevu after post-election investigations. Inauguration Logistics: Kulima Tower Bus Station says it will provide 100 free buses for the inauguration day.

Election Dispute & Courts Closure: Zambia’s courts have stayed shut as the presidential petition deadline nears, with opposition alleging the shutdown blocks legal challenges after the August 13 vote. AU Intervention Call: The Tonse-Pamodzi Alliance has asked the African Union to intervene, warning that judicial scrutiny is being “mooted” by the closure ahead of the Sept 1 inauguration. Inauguration Push vs Petition Process: State House says Hichilema’s swearing-in will go ahead on Sept 1, while the Judiciary says Chief Justice Mumba Malila received “the people’s presidential petition” via his private email and referred it to the Constitutional Court—described as “highly irregular.” Access to Justice Debate: The Law Association of Zambia is calling for urgent restoration of court access and lawful alternative arrangements. UN Steps In: The UN has sent a representative to engage authorities over Mundubile and Makebi Zulu staying at a UN facility in Lusaka amid government pressure to hand them over. Cybersecurity Crackdown: The DEC says 79 cybercrime suspects targeted government systems, including ECZ.

Election Courtroom Clash: Zambia’s courts were shut as “crime scenes” ahead of the presidential petition deadline, with State House denying HH ordered the closure and the Judiciary saying the Chief Justice received “the people’s presidential petition” via his private email—then referred it to the Constitutional Court, while Cabinet insists no petition was filed in time and HH’s swearing-in will go ahead on Sept 1. Legal Challenge Filed: Linda Kasonde, Brebner Changala and LCK Freedom Foundation have filed a presidential petition challenging the Aug 13 results, citing observer and CCMG parallel vote tabulation records and alleging issues including turnout and security force deployment. Security & Governance: The DEC says it arrested 79 cybercrime suspects targeting government systems, including those linked to ECZ, and Zambia’s gold sector is being tightened with Bank of Zambia named the sole authorised gold buyer. Trade & Borders: ZRA signed for Livingstone X-ray cargo scanners to boost border security and trade flow, while LuSE and ZDA moved to expand access to long-term capital for businesses. Public Safety: Bulawayo’s Minister Judith Ncube warned drug and substance abuse is now a national security and economic threat, calling for coordinated action.

Courts & Election Petitions: State House says President Hakainde Hichilema did not order the closure of courts ahead of the presidential petition deadline, pointing instead to police security risk assessments across government premises. Legal Challenge: Former LAZ president Linda Kasonde and two others have filed an election petition challenging the Aug. 13 result, and Kasonde says she tried to file electronically but the email bounced back, sending documents to the Chief Justice. EU Engagement: Ambassadors Muhabi Lungu and George Chulumanda told EU observers they are concerned about the courts’ closure on deadline day, “selective” shutdowns, and possible interference with the petition process. Post-Election Tensions: Reports continue to swirl around the death of former minister Mutotwe Kafwaya and the wider crackdown narrative, with calls for independent investigations. Border Security & Trade: ZRA signed with Astrophysics Inc. to install drive-through X-ray cargo scanners at Livingstone border post, building on the Nakonde deployment. Economy & Markets: Zambia’s bond auction after the election was oversubscribed by about 37%, signalling renewed investor confidence. Infrastructure: Government plans to upgrade the Great East Road airport-to-Chongwe stretch into a dual carriageway.