Zambian presidential hopeful, Harry Kalaba, gains diplomatic momentum ahead of 2026 elections
As Zambia approaches a critical general election in 2026, Harry Kalaba, leader of the opposition Citizens First Party and former Minister of Foreign Affairs, is emerging as a leading figure in the country’s democratic renewal.
Kalaba’s recent diplomatic outreach across East Africa and Europe signals his intention to strengthen Zambia’s regional integration and reposition the nation as a reliable partner on the global stage.
In a high-level regional tour, Mr. Kalaba met with veteran Kenyan political leader Raila Odinga, held diplomatic consultations with officials from the American Embassy in Uganda, and engaged with the European Union Delegation. These meetings reflect growing international interest in Kalaba’s candidacy and his reform-driven agenda focused on transparency, economic inclusion, and democratic integrity.
“Zambia’s challenges — from youth unemployment to public debt and governance deficits — require not only domestic resolve but also international cooperation,” Kalaba stated. “We are engaging global partners to restore Zambia’s international standing and attract the investment and policy partnerships needed to improve the lives of ordinary citizens.”
Kalaba, widely known for his principled resignation from the former government over corruption concerns, brings a strong record of ethical leadership and diplomacy. As Foreign Affairs Minister, he helped steer Zambia through a period of political transition and represented the country with distinction on the international stage.
His growing support from regional leaders and Western diplomats is viewed by analysts as a signal of confidence in his ability to offer a credible, progressive alternative to Zambia’s current political establishment. Kalaba’s platform emphasizes sustainable development, investment in education and infrastructure, and improved governance mechanisms to ensure equitable resource distribution.
With Zambia’s political climate increasingly volatile and public trust in state institutions waning, Kalaba’s international engagements suggest a deliberate effort to foster stability and rebuild confidence — both at home and abroad.
Credit: Eglobslnews
Unfortunately for Harry, only Zambians will be voting.
Zero qualifications.
Only job held was that of a Registry clerk in the files registry at cabinet office. Dropped out a Catholic university in Italy and entered
He was only senior to an office orderly, sweeper and driver in professional working life.
Low life. Used to storm finance registry hall as a minister demanding for allowances .
This one is really uncouth, unbeffitting for office
What will he do differently from PF. Just speaking diplomatically is not enough.
Bushiri’s buddy is campaigning in the wrong demographics, instead of being visible locally, he wants visibility where it currently does not matter
Kkkkk… Diplomatic momentum indeed!
Who even posted this trash?⁹
I wish Harry Kalaba all the best.
He needs to get to the grassroot and mobilise the people… Meeting the US Ambassador in Uganda while it’s good for a selfie won’t help him much. The zeros he got in Solwezi should wake him up so that he doubles on mobilisation.
Kalaba, elections to elect you as a Zambian republican president are not held in East Africa. Elections are held in Zambia in Kanyama compound and elsewhere in Zambia. You are just wasting your time going to those places, besides you are talking to wrong people.
Well, their ‘dead’ preffered candidate told Zambians he had no vision, we would be deluding ourselves to expect any better from no ones choice. He still has no single MP or counsellor and still dreaming of becoming a president. It’s a pity! These opposition party leaders think they can win by using propaganda when the country has now been discharged from the ICU!
How low is this article. Ati Kalaba who resigned from PF on principle due to corruption*#@!& isn’t this the same guy who is currently in bed with PF??? What principles imwe naimwe???? Just political howlers looking for relevance elsewhere but not on the ground where it matters