The Editor Zambia
The decision by Tonse-Pamodzi Alliance secretary general Christopher Zumani Zimba not to petition the outcome of the 2026 general elections has been commended by peace-loving Zambians.
Zambians have commended Zumani Zimba for demonstrating maturity and statesmanship at a critical moment in the nation’s politics. 
In the aftermath of a highly contested election, it takes courage and wisdom to put country above personal ambition.
Zimba’s calm and measured approach has been described as the kind of leadership Zambia needs in situations such as this.
By choosing dialogue over confrontation and peace over division, Zimba has set an example for all political actors to emulate.
Like President Hakainde Hichilema has always emphasized, grievances should be channelled through constructive dialogue rather than destructive actions or unrest.
The elections have been concluded, results announced, and the people’s verdict is clear.
Zambia has spoken through the ballot, and now is the time to respect that decision and move forward as one nation.
To take the route of petitions now will only deepen divisions, waste valuable time, and distract people from the urgent work of rebuilding the economy.
Prolonged arguments and contestations will only distract citizens from the real issues affecting ordinary citizens who are waiting for jobs, better services, and economic relief.
Elections may come with different opinions, strong debates, victories, and disappointments, but at the end of the day, we are one Zambia and one people.
The focus now must shift to development. The government, opposition, civil society, and the private sector all have a role to play in rebuilding the economy.
“Let us put politics aside and unite around a common agenda of growth, peace, and progress. The time for campaigns has passed. The time for work has begun,” commented one civil society leader.
Leadership requires people to put the country first, even when the outcome is not what they hoped for.
The opposition’s role now is not to fight the verdict but to respect the democratic process and position themselves to hold the government accountable through Parliament and other democratic institutions.
The UPND won a majority in Parliament and the Presidency. That is a national mandate that cannot be ignored. Instead of contesting it in court, the opposition must engage constructively.
