News Digest - Wednesday, September 3rd, 2025

Political tensions rise as opposition figures discuss strategies for the 2026 elections, while government officials address perceptions of selective anti-corruption investigations. In sports, the national football teams intensify preparations for crucial World Cup qualifiers, supported by association pledges and technological advancements in officiating.

Main Stories

1. Muhabi Lungu on 2026 Elections
   ZAMBIA We Want Spokesperson Muhabi Lungu stated President Hakainde Hde Hichilema is mistaken in expecting an easy 2026 re-election, asserting opposition parties could defeat could defeat the UPND if at least 60% unite. Lungu emphasized the opposition’s readiness during a Millennium TV appearance.
2. ACC Addresses Selective Investigation Claims
   ACC Director General Daphne Chabu acknowledged public perception that the Commission focuses on cases involving former office holders but reaffirmed its commitment to fighting corruption impartially. Chabu advocated for lifestyle audits for all public service workers as a corruption detection tool.
3. FAZ Pledges Support for Chipolopolo
   FAZ president Keith Mweemba promised full support for the Chipolopolo Boys ahead of their World Cup qualifier against Morocco on September 8 at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium. Mweemba urged Zambians to unite and avoid press the team.
4. Mweetwa Challenges ACC on Ministerial Probes
   Chief Government Spokesperson Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa challenged the ACC to name ministers allegedly under investigation for corruption. Mweetwa also cited delays in operationalizing the Access to Information law, awaiting rules and regulations, and anticipated loadshedding improvements by December.
5. U20 Women’s Squad Named for Burundi Clash
   Coach Charity Nthala unveiled a 34-member provisional Zambia U20 Women’s squad for FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Burundi on September 19 and 27. The squad retains core players from the COSAFA U20 Women’s Championship-winning team, including goalkeepers Chishala Mufunte and Mary Nyangu.
6. Key Players Join Chipolopolo Camp
   Foreign-based players Fashion Sakala (Al Fayha FC), Patson Daka (Leicester City), and Emmanuel Banda (Maccabi Bnei) arrived in Ndola for Zambia’s World Cup qualifier against Morocco. Coach Avram Grant aims to field a strong team for the September 8 match at Levy Mwanawasa Stadium.
7. Second Phase of VAR Training Launched
   FAZFAZ initiated the second phase of FIFA-sponsored Video Assistant Referee (VAR) training in Lusaka to elevate refereeing standards. President Keith Mweemba stated this demonstrates FAZ’s commitment to being a trendsetter in African football.
8. TIZ Report on Party Funding Transparency
   A Transparency International Zambia study revealed 75% of sampled political parties exhibit low transparency levels in funding management. TIZ attributed this to the absence of laws compelling parties to disclose funding sources, with only 25% maintaining detailed financial records.
9. Yango’s Lost Item Statistics
   Yango Ride reported over 14,000 lost item requests in Zambia, with phones (61%), bags/wallets (15%), and power banks (5%) most common. Unusual items included a basket of eggs, cooking oil, a djembe drum, six soccer balls, a clay pot, and a portrait of Kalusha Bwalya.
10. Malanji and Yamba Found Guilty
    Lusaka Magistrate’s Court convicted former Foreign Affairs Minister Joseph Malanji on seven counts of possessing property suspected as proceeds of crime and former Treasury Secretary Fredson Yamba on two counts of failing to follow procedure. Sentencing is set for tomorrow, with both remanded in custody.
11. AG Defends Cyber Laws
    Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha defended the Cyber Crimes and Cyber Security Acts, arguing they do not infringe constitutional rights to privacy, expression, press, conscience, or association. Kabesha asserted the laws are reasonably justifiable in a democratic society and asked the High Court to dismiss LAZ’s challenge.

Other Notable Stories

Governance & Politics:

• President Hichilema advised University of Zambia students to prioritize studies over marriage and reduce alcohol, drug abuse during an interaction.
• UNZA students marched to State House to present new leadership, with president Kabaso Mwanto pledging support for President Hichilema in 2026 and requesting improved sanitation and meal allowances.
• President Hichilema cited the ongoing ZAMMSA forensic audit as part of efforts to address drug shortages and eradicate health sector corruption.

Sports:

• FIFA VAR specialist Ramy Gamal encouraged Zambian match officials to embrace VAR technology to officiate globally.
• FAZ president Keith Mweemba highlighted ongoing efforts to improve match officials' welfare.

Key Takeaways & Watchpoints

• Opposition parties are actively discussing coalition strategies for the 2026 general elections.
• The ACC continues addressing public perceptions of bias while advocating for broader lifestyle audits.
• • Zambia’s senior and U20 national football teams face critical World Cup qualifying matches this month.