Thursday declared a public holiday — Kangwa
GOVERNMENT has officially declared Thursday, August 13, 2026 a public holiday to allow Zambians to cast their votes in the General Elections.
Government has, however, clarified that Friday August 14, will be a normal working day.
Secretary to the Cabinet, Patrick Kangwa said the holiday is necessary to facilitate voting in line with the Constitution.
” Government wishes to inform the nation that Thursday August,13 2026 has been declared a Public Holiday. The date was set in accordance with Article 56 (1) and (2) of the Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Act No. 2 of 2016, which provides that general elections shall be held on the second Thursday of August every five years,” Kangwa said in a statement.
He said the declaration means public offices, schools and most businesses are expected to close to enable citizens across the country to participate in the polls.
” The general public is further informed that Friday, August 14, 2026, will not be a public holiday and shall therefore be a normal working day,” Kangwa emphasized.
– TV Yatu | Sanfrossa Mberi | August 11, 2026.
Public service workers, those working in the private sector, and all other citizens have to travel long distances to places of voting. It would have helped to have a day for those travelling out to cast a vote, and another day , Friday, free of work for those who would have travelled long distances to go and vote. Just a practical thing. IIIIIIIIIIIIIIII vote from Chavuma and I must have time to, and from, to go exercise my constitutional right.
Food for thought and quick intervention by Cabinet office required here.