African Diplomats Praise Engagement

African envoys commend Government’s election consultations, call for continued dialogue ahead of August polls

By Francis Maingaila ♥️

Lusaka, Zambia 24 -- (07-05-2026) ---

The Government of Zambia has assured African diplomats accredited to the country that the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) remains fully responsible for managing the August 2026 General Elections, as diplomats praised Government’s continued engagement and transparency ahead of the polls.

Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Princess Kasune gave the assurance during a Special Ministerial Briefing for the African diplomatic corps in Lusaka, where she reiterated Government’s commitment to peaceful democratic processes, constitutionalism, and inclusive participation in elections.

Princess Kasune said the ECZ would continue providing updates on electoral preparedness while Government remained committed to guaranteeing stability, continuity, and transparency throughout the electoral period.

She stated that Zambia remains firmly committed to orderly democratic transitions, noting that the country has consistently held elections since the return of multiparty democracy in 1991.

Princess Kasune said Government would continue strengthening democratic governance structures and upholding the rule of law, while emphasizing the importance of dialogue and diplomacy in maintaining national stability.

She also assured diplomats and investors that business operations would continue uninterrupted before, during, and after the elections, adding that the Government’s 24-hour economy policy was aimed at sustaining productivity, attracting investment, and maintaining economic momentum throughout the electoral period.

On economic policy, Princess Kasune said economic diplomacy remained a central pillar of Zambia’s foreign policy, with Government focusing on diversification, trade expansion, and investment promotion.

She added that Zambia was engaging cooperating partners to strengthen its position as a regional hub for business and sustainable development.

Princess Kasune further reaffirmed Government’s commitment to transparency in the electoral process and welcomed regional and international observer missions for the August polls, stating that their presence enhances credibility and public confidence in elections.

On peace and security, she said Zambia remained committed to conflict prevention, mediation, and peacebuilding efforts across Africa, noting the country’s continued role as a neutral and trusted facilitator in regional and international disputes.

Earlier, Acting Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Ms. Margaret N. Miyoba said the briefing followed a request by the African diplomatic corps to receive updates on Zambia’s preparedness for the upcoming general elections.

Ms. Miyoba stated that ECZ Chief Electoral Officer Mr. Brown Kasaro had been invited to brief diplomats on the country’s state of readiness and respond to questions relating to the electoral process.

She emphasized that the ECZ, as a constitutionally mandated institution, remained responsible for managing elections and ensuring that the process is conducted in line with the law.

Ms. Miyoba also reaffirmed Government’s commitment to maintaining open engagement and cooperation with diplomatic missions accredited to Zambia, particularly those from the African continent.

Meanwhile, the African Group of Ambassadors and High Commissioners commended the Zambian Government for what it described as meaningful and timely engagement ahead of the 2026 general elections.

Speaking through its Dean, Ambassador C. Charamba, the diplomatic corps expressed appreciation for the opportunity to interact with Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Princess Kasune and receive updates on key national processes, including electoral preparedness presented by the ECZ.

Ambassador Charamba described the meeting as a valuable platform for dialogue on issues of mutual interest and stressed the importance of continued consultations, transparency, and cooperation as the country heads towards the August elections.

He said the diplomatic corps welcomed the ECZ presentation on preparations for the 13 August 2026 general elections, describing it as timely and informative.

Ambassador Charamba further called for continued updates on the electoral process and expressed hope that similar engagements would be held regularly to strengthen cooperation in line with African Union principles of unity, solidarity, and development.

He also thanked Ms. Miyoba and Ministry staff for coordinating the briefing, as well as fellow ambassadors and high commissioners for attending the meeting.

In conclusion, Ambassador Charamba reaffirmed the African Group’s commitment to continued collaboration with the Zambian Government and wished the country peaceful elections in August 2026.

The briefing was attended by Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister and members of the African diplomatic corps led by Ambassador .