BREAKING AKUNA KULALA NEWS: “ZAMBIA 2026: WHAT ARE THE MAIN PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES OFFERING?”
Golden Mapulanga-political analyst
Disclaimer: This summary is based on campaign statements, manifestos, and recent media reports. For the most comprehensive policy positions, readers are encouraged to consult each political party’s official manifesto and campaign publications.
With the elections drawing closer, Zambians are comparing not only personalities but also the visions and policy proposals of those seeking the presidency. Below is a summary of the major campaign messages from the leading candidates based on their public manifestos, speeches, and campaign commitments.
UPND – Hakainde Hichilema
Theme: Economic Transformation, Production and Prosperity
✅ Double the size of Zambia’s economy and create millions of jobs. ✅ Build international airports in every provincial capital and modernize key railway networks, including TAZARA. ✅ Increase electricity generation to 10,000 MW. ✅ Produce 10 million tonnes of maize annually. ✅ Grow beef exports to US$1 billion. ✅ Continue free education and establish a public university in every province.
NRPUP – Brian Mundubile
Theme: National Reset and Christian Values
✅ Reaffirm Zambia as a Christian Nation guided by justice, integrity and servant leadership. ✅ Promise a comprehensive national “reset” of governance and the economy. ✅ Increase meal allowances for all university students. ✅ Pledge to create opportunities that would enable young people to become financially successful.
CF – Harry Kalaba
Theme: Citizen Empowerment and Cost of Living
✅ Repeal the Public Order Act to expand political freedoms. ✅ Prioritize the economic empowerment of Zambian citizens. ✅ Address the high cost of living despite declining inflation. ✅ Restore what he describes as national dignity and accountable leadership.
SP / People’s Pact – Fred M’membe
Theme: Economic Sovereignty and Social Investment
✅ Reduce reliance on IMF-driven economic policies. ✅ Allocate at least 25% of the national budget to education. ✅ Strengthen public investment in social services. ✅ Increase Zambian ownership and control of the country’s natural resources.
The choice before Zambians is ultimately a choice between competing visions for the country’s future. As election day approaches, voters may wish to examine not only the promises being made but also how each candidate intends to implement them.
Your Honourable Diplomat 🙏