Order and Respect



AIPAC Condemns Intimidation of Independent Candidates Ahead of 2026 Polls

By Francis Maingaila ♥️

Lusaka, Zambia24  --- 20-05-2026) --- The (AIPAC) has condemned acts of intimidation and obstruction against individuals seeking to contest the 2026 General Elections as independent candidates, describing the conduct as unlawful and a threat to Zambia’s democratic process.

AIPAC Executive Director Solomon Ngoma told Zambia24 that the organisation was deeply concerned by reports of cadres allegedly blocking and intimidating aspiring independent candidates in Mazabuka and Choma, warning that such behaviour undermines constitutional rights and weakens confidence in the country’s democracy.

“AIPAC wishes to express its deep concern over the disturbing behaviour of certain cadres who have been blocking and intimidating individuals seeking to participate in the 2026 General Elections as independent candidates,” Ngoma said in a statement issued in Lusaka on May 20.

He stressed that the Constitution of Zambia guarantees every eligible citizen the right to participate in elections either through political parties or as independents.

“This right is not conditional, nor is it subject to the approval of cadres or political actors. It is a constitutional entitlement that must be respected and protected,” Ngoma stated.

The organisation said incidents reported in Mazabuka and Choma, allegedly involving cadres linked to the ruling (UPND), project a negative image of Zambia’s democracy and suggest shrinking democratic space.

AIPAC warned that intimidation and violence have no place in a democratic society and risk damaging the country’s reputation both locally and internationally.

The think tank has since called on the leadership of the UPND to take decisive action against what it described as “thuggery behaviour” by party cadres.

“Leadership must be demonstrated not only in words but in deeds. Allowing cadres to intimidate potential candidates is a betrayal of democratic principles,” Ngoma said.

AIPAC also appealed to the Zambia Police Command to enforce the law impartially and uphold recent directives by President against electoral violence.

“The police must act without fear or favour and ensure that the law is applied equally to all citizens,” the statement read.

The organisation further urged political parties, civil society organisations, the media, and citizens to defend democratic values and ensure that elections are conducted peacefully and fairly.

“AIPAC strongly condemns these acts of intimidation and obstruction. Democracy thrives when citizens are free to make choices without coercion,” Ngoma said.

He added that independent candidates have a constitutional right to contest elections and that attempts to block them are both unconstitutional and futile.

AIPAC said it would continue monitoring developments surrounding the electoral process and would speak out against any actions that undermine constitutional order and democratic participation.

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