23/05/2026
SHZ UPDATE: ECZ CONFIRMS 14 VALIDLY NOMINATED PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATES FOR 2026 POLLS
The race for Zambia’s highest office is officially set after the confirmation of 14 validly nominated presidential candidates for the August 13, 2026 General Elections.
Among the contenders is incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema of the United Party for National Development, alongside opposition leaders and independent candidates from various political parties.
📌 The 14 Presidential Candidates and Running Mates:
1️⃣ Given Mwenya Chansa & Harrison Chewe — Movement for Economic Emancipation
2️⃣ Richard Silumbe & Kaela Kamwenesha — Leadership Movement
3️⃣ Harry Kalaba & Moses Mawere — Citizens First
4️⃣ Fred M'membe & Dolika Banda — Socialist Party
5️⃣ Kelvin Fube Bwalya & Milner Katolo — Zambia Must Prosper
6️⃣ Brian Mundubile & Makebi Zulu — National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity
7️⃣ Howard K***a & Chipo Miyoba — Zambia Wake Up Party
8️⃣ Brian Mushimba & Andyford Mayele Banda — Organised People’s Party
9️⃣ Given Katuta & John Nyirenda — Independent
🔟 Xavier Chungu & Gerald Dingiswayo Mwanza — Liberal Democrats Party
1️⃣1️⃣ Hakainde Hichilema & Mutale Nalumango — United Party for National Development
1️⃣2️⃣ Dan P**e & Bert Mushala — Christian Democratic Party
1️⃣3️⃣ Richwell Siamunene & Nicholas Banda — New Focus Party
1️⃣4️⃣ Ackim Antony Njobvu & Mirriam Banda — Democratic Union
📊 Gender Breakdown:
Presidential candidates: 13 males, 1 female
Running mates: 11 males, 3 females
Compared to the August 12, 2021 ballot paper, which featured 16 candidates, the 2026 race enters with slightly fewer contenders but remains highly competitive.
The road to August 13, 2026 is officially underway.
-SHZ UPDATE
