Zambia Invites EU to Observe 2026 General Election and Deepens Democratic Ties

Zambia has extended an invitation to the European Union to observe its 2026 General Elections, underscoring the country’s ongoing commitment to democratic governance.

The invitation was delivered by Zambian Foreign Minister Mulambo Haimbe during a meeting with David McAllister, Chair of the European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the third EU-African Union Ministerial Meeting in Brussels on Wednesday.

Haimbe thanked the EU for its role in observing Zambia’s 2021 elections and reaffirmed the New Dawn government’s dedication to upholding democratic values. He highlighted key reforms aimed at strengthening civil liberties, including the repeal of the controversial defamation of the president law, a move widely seen as a step toward greater media freedom.

The two officials also discussed deepening cooperation between Zambia and the EU, with a focus on promoting electoral transparency, institutional development and shared democratic principles.

McAllister praised Zambia’s democratic progress, describing the country as a model of political stability. He reiterated the EU’s readiness to support Zambia and other nations pursuing democratic reforms and good governance. 

The meeting reflects Zambia’s growing international profile and its role as a democratic leader on the African continent.