Government Urges Calm and Responsible Social Media Use Following Elections

The Secretary to the Cabinet, Mr Patrick Kangwa, has appealed to Zambians to safeguard the country's peace and unity in the wake of the 2026 Presidential and General Elections, warning in particular against the growing tension being fuelled on social media.

In a statement to the nation, Mr Kangwa said Zambia remained peaceful and calm, and cautioned citizens not to be swayed by exaggerated reports or unverified narratives designed to spread fear, panic and division. He stressed that peace was not accidental but the result of deliberate choices by citizens, leaders and the country's democratic institutions.

Much of his message focused on the conduct of online discourse, which he described as increasingly unhealthy. Mr Kangwa made a sober appeal for maximum restraint and responsibility on digital platforms, saying it was unacceptable to drag children into adult political debate or to use social media to hurl insults at the Head of State and other leaders. He was especially firm on reckless posts calling for harm or the assassination of the President, describing such statements as both deeply unpatriotic and criminal, and warning that they would be dealt with firmly under the law. Social media, he said, should be used to inform, unite and build the nation rather than to divide and destroy it.

While reaffirming the government's respect for freedom of expression, Mr Kangwa reminded citizens, the media and the church that freedom carries responsibility, and urged all to promote peace, love and unity.

He also extended the government's condolences to the family of Mr Mutotwe Kafwaya, but declined to comment further, noting that the matter remains the subject of an ongoing investigation.

Mr Kangwa said the government, through his office, would continue to provide regular updates on post-election and other emerging national matters.