ADEG Warns Against Disinformation Ahead of 2026 General Elections

By Francis Maingaila ♥️

Lusaka, Zambia24  (March 1, 2026) — The (ADEG) has expressed concern over what it describes as the growing misuse of digital and public spaces through the spread of fake news, misinformation, and disinformation as Zambia approaches the 2026 general elections.

ADEG Executive Director Gideon Musonda told Zambia24 that the online content depicting President in a coffin and false claims alleging his resignation were reckless actions that threaten national cohesion and public trust.

Musonda said such narratives, if left unchecked, risk undermining the integrity of the electoral process at a time when the country has entered what he termed a politically sensitive phase.

“Zambia is now in a politically sensitive phase of the electoral process. During this period, citizens actively seek information that will shape their perspectives and ultimately influence their electoral choices,” Musonda stated.

He urged all electoral stakeholders — including citizens, political parties, civil society organisations, and the media — to prioritise accuracy, responsibility, and integrity in disseminating information across both digital and physical platforms.

While reaffirming ADEG’s commitment to the protection and promotion of freedom of expression, Musonda stressed that the right must be exercised with responsibility and respect for the rights and dignity of others, including individuals in national leadership.

“Freedom of expression should not be exploited to spread harmful or misleading information,” he said.

ADEG also called on state institutions mandated to enforce the law to act in a fair, objective, and non-partisan manner, warning against the selective application of the law or its use to target citizens with differing views.

In addition, ADEG urged the Government to expedite reforms to the and other restrictive legal frameworks to enhance the enjoyment of freedoms of expression, assembly, and association ahead of the elections.

Musonda noted that recent public commitments by President Hichilema to uphold free and fair elections must be reflected not only in the equitable application of laws but also in the implementation of reforms that advance democratic progress.

ADEG reaffirmed its commitment to fostering a democratic environment that is peaceful, informed, inclusive, and respectful of fundamental freedoms as the country heads toward the 2026 polls.

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