Katuta Suffers Setback as Running Mate, Runs Away
JOHN Nyirenda has resigned as the running mate to independent presidential candidate Given Katuta.
He becomes the third vice-presidential candidate to withdraw just 23 days before the general election.
In a letter dated July 21, 2026, addressed to Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) chief electoral officer Brown Kasaro, Mr Nyirenda formally notified the Commission of his decision to withdraw as Reverend Katuta’s running mate.
Mr Nyirenda said the decision was voluntary and followed consultations with his family, friends and traditional leaders.
“I hereby formally notify the Electoral Commission of Zambia of my decision to withdraw as the running mate to the Independent Presidential Candidate, Rev. Dr. Given Katuta, for the August 2026 General Election,” the letter reads in part.
Contacted for comment, Rev. Katuta said she was unaware of Mr Nyirenda’s decision to resign as her running mate.
Mr Nyirenda is the third presidential running mate to withdraw ahead of the August 13 polls after Andyford Banda, who was running with Organized People’s Party presidential candidate Brian Mushimba, and Moses Mawere, who withdrew as the running mate to Citizens First presidential candidate Harry Kalaba.
Katuta Suffers Setback as Running Mate, Runs Away
