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Zambia is not facing an election crisis or breakdown of democratic order following the Aug. 13 general election, State House Chief Communications Specialist Clayson Hamasaka has said, describing ongoing concerns as suspected criminal activity by some individuals.
Hamasaka made the remarks in response to commentary from opposition figures operating from outside Zambia, days after President Hakainde Hichilema and Vice President Mutale Nalumango were sworn in for a second term covering 2026 to 2031.
“Contrary to the propaganda that the inauguration was illegal, for the record, there is no active presidential election petition in any Zambian court and there is no crisis in the country at the moment,” Hamasaka said.
He said suspected criminal acts by some individuals should not be portrayed as a political or constitutional crisis, adding that citizens remained peaceful and continued with their daily activities.
Hamasaka also criticised calls from abroad for confrontation and insurrection, saying those advocating unrest from outside Zambia would not bear the consequences of such actions.
“I appreciate that electoral defeat can be painful. What is rather less admirable, however, is the courage conveniently discovered behind a keyboard, from the safety and comfort of a foreign country, while urging citizens at home towards confrontation and insurrection,” he said.
Hamasaka cited Zambia’s previous closely contested elections, saying the United Party for National Development (UPND) accepted narrow defeats in the 2015 and 2016 elections before eventually winning power in 2021.
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“That is how democracy should work: win without vengeance and lose without attempting to burn down the house simply because somebody else has been given the keys,” he said.
He contrasted the aftermath of the 2026 election with previous polls, where celebrations sometimes became hostile, saying political leadership and security agencies had previously helped prevent tensions from escalating.
“When some UPND supporters subsequently appeared tempted to retaliate, the party leadership equally restrained them. Firm condemnation from the President, responsible citizens and the security services prevented matters from deteriorating further,” he said.
Hamasaka urged political actors to use lawful channels to challenge election outcomes and pursue political grievances rather than encourage unrest.
“Perpetual bitterness is not healthy for politicians, their families or their supporters. Democracy requires the maturity to understand that political power is neither hereditary nor an entitlement. So, gentlemen, complain if you must. Petition where the law permits. Criticise robustly. Organise politically. Prepare for another election,” he said.
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