LAZ CALLS FOR A LAWFUL, CONSTITUTIONAL AND CONSULTATIVE PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN TIMETABLE
Arnold Kaluba, President of the Law Association of Zambia (LAZ), has urged the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) to adhere to constitutional principles by ensuring that the presidential campaign timetable for the 2026 general elections is lawful, consultative, and respectful of citizens’ rights.
At the heart of LAZ’s appeal is the protection of constitutional guarantees enshrined in Article 21 of the Zambian Constitution, which safeguards the freedoms of assembly and association.
These rights allow Zambian citizens to freely participate in political processes, including election campaigns, without undue restriction.
LAZ’s concern stems from an advisory issued by the ECZ on June 18, 2026, mandating that all presidential candidates must strictly follow a campaign schedule determined solely by the ECZ, without prior consultation with political stakeholders or civil society actors.
Kaluba emphasized that while it is crucial to maintain public order and fairness throughout the electoral period, any regulations or limitations on political activity must arise from meaningful stakeholder engagement and be firmly grounded in the law.
The association stressed that such restrictions must be reasonable, proportionate to the objectives pursued, and consistent with the Constitution to avoid undermining democratic principles.