JAY JAY BANDA MUST NOT USE ASYLUM AS A PLATFORM TO INCITE ZAMBIANS
By Philip Banda
As Zambia moves beyond the 2026 general election, the country needs calm, unity and a renewed focus on development—not calls for confrontation or protests that could put innocent citizens in harm’s way.
There are concerns over statements attributed to Jay Jay Banda calling on Zambians to rise against the government following the poor performance of the NRPUP in the elections. Such calls should be treated with caution. No political leader or activist is worth a Zambian citizen losing their life for.
Those who are outside the country under asylum or refugee protection should equally understand that such protection comes with responsibilities. The 1951 Refugee Convention, administered within the international refugee-protection framework supported by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), provides protection to people fleeing persecution and serious harm. UNHCR explains that refugees are required to obey the laws of their country of asylum and respect measures taken to maintain public order.
It is also important to clarify that UNHCR does not simply “approve asylum” in every case. Asylum is protection granted by a state, while refugee-status determination may be undertaken by governments or, in some circumstances, UNHCR depending on the country and applicable arrangements.
Therefore, if credible evidence establishes that a person enjoying international protection is using their position to encourage violence or public disorder, the appropriate authorities should raise the matter through the proper legal and diplomatic channels, including with the relevant authorities in the country of asylum and, where appropriate, UNHCR.
Zambia has already spoken through the ballot. The Electoral Commission of Zambia declared President Hakainde Hichilema the winner of the August 13 presidential election, with 2,965,326 votes, representing 60.49% of the vote.
Whether one supported HH, Brian Mundubile, the NRPUP or another candidate, the election is now over. Those who believe there were irregularities have legal and constitutional avenues through which to challenge the outcome. Violence and street confrontation should never be the alternative.
Zambia belongs to all of us.
Nobody is worth dying for because of politics. No politician should encourage ordinary citizens to sacrifice their lives while they remain safe elsewhere.
Let us accept the electoral outcome, respect the democratic process, put political differences aside and begin working together to develop Zambia.
The election is over. The nation remains. Zambia must come first.
It is time the NRPUP distance themselves from this man.When he speaks we attribute everything to have the blessings of the leadership.Zambians are watching,same people who brought both physical and psychological pain during PF are given a huge platform under NRPUP and they seem not to have reformed,no wonder most Zambians look at NRPUP they see and remember the pain during PF.Change of name and color is seen but not of character.