Police intensify security for August polls

THE Zambia Police Service has announced heightened nationwide security operations as the country enters the second half of the campaign period ahead of the August 13, 2026 general elections, reaffirming its firm stance against political violence and electoral misconduct.

Inspector General of Police Graphael Musamba says the country has generally remained peaceful since the campaign period officially commenced although a few isolated incidents have been recorded in different parts of the country.

Mr Musamba said the Police Service would remain committed to ensuring a peaceful and secure environment that allowed all electoral stakeholders to participate freely without fear, intimidation or violence.

“The Zambia Police Service is the principal law enforcement agency mandated under Article 193(2) of the Constitution of Zambia to maintain law and order, protect life and property, uphold the Bill of Rights, and ensure public safety and security. In the electoral context, our duty is to guarantee a peaceful and secure environment in which all stakeholders can freely participate without fear, intimidation or violence,” Mr Musamba said.

He explained that police had successfully implemented electoral security measures announced at the beginning of the campaign period, resulting in relative calm across the country.

He said that authorities recorded a politically related murder case in Kaputa on Monday, in which one person died.

Mr. Musamba said 10 suspects had since been arrested and are in police custody.

He he also reported another murder case in Magoye area of Mazabuka, where a driver for an independent parliamentary candidate was allegedly killed.

“Investigations are ongoing to bring the suspects to book,” he said.

Mr Musamba said the police have also dealt with cases involving breaches of campaign schedules and trespassing in areas allocated to rival political parties.

“No individual or political grouping will be allowed to undermine public peace, regardless of status or affiliation,” he said.

To strengthen security operations, the Police Service has increased deployments across the country, with Lusaka now divided into six operational policing zones aimed at improving response time and operational effectiveness.

Mr. Musamba said police would continue working closely with the Electoral Commission of Zambia and other partners to ensure all political activities are conducted safely and within the law.

Mr. Musamba said security operations would be intensified through increased foot and motorised patrols, rapid response mechanisms and expanded public awareness campaigns.

“There shall be zero tolerance for political violence, intimidation, hate speech, destruction of property, incitement, or any acts that threaten public order and national peace. Offenders will be dealt with firmly and in accordance with the law,” he said.