Campaigns Sell Policies, Not hatred

AIPAC Urges Political Parties to Focus on Manifestos and Avoid Misleading Voters

By Francis Maingaila

Lusaka, Zambia24 July 7, 2026 — The Acton Institute for Policy Analysis Centre (AIPAC) has urged political parties contesting the August 13 general elections to focus their campaigns on explaining their manifestos instead of using divisive rhetoric and misleading statements.

AIPAC Executive Director Solomon Ngoma said political parties should use rallies and public meetings to present their policies and vision for the country, arguing that manifestos are the basis on which voters should judge whether parties are capable of delivering meaningful change.

Ngoma also expressed concern over what he described as misleading statements by some sections of society regarding voting rights. 

He said Zambia's Constitution allows voters to elect an independent parliamentary candidate while also voting for a presidential candidate from a political party, adding that no one should mislead citizens or attempt to deny them that right.

He further advised aspiring Members of Parliament against making unrealistic campaign promises, saying voters are now more aware of the responsibilities of MPs and expect honesty and accountability from those seeking public office.

Ngoma said many lawmakers had previously lost elections after failing to remain accountable to their constituents once elected, urging candidates to make only promises they are able to fulfill.

He also encouraged voters to critically assess campaign messages by comparing candidates' public statements with the commitments contained in their party manifestos, saying this would help citizens make informed decisions and hold leaders accountable.

Ngoma reminded Zambians that the August 13 general elections would determine the country's leadership for the next five years and urged citizens to vote wisely based on policies rather than emotions or campaign slogans.

He said AIPAC, as an independent policy think tank, is monitoring campaign messages with particular attention to policy issues and appealed to political parties to abandon empty slogans in favour of practical solutions to the country's challenges.

Ngoma urged political leaders to prioritise the national interest by conducting issue-based campaigns that promote respect, honesty and informed democratic participation.