ZPS Issues Security Update for Polling Day and After

The Zambia Police Service says the 13 August 2026 General Election was generally peaceful, but isolated incidents of violence and disorder were recorded in several parts of the country.

In a security update issued on August 14, Inspector General of Police Graphel Musamba commended voters, political parties, candidates and other stakeholders for their conduct during polling.

The Police Service also praised its officers and other law enforcement agencies for what it described as professionalism and impartiality in securing polling stations, voters, electoral officials and election materials.

However, Police said incidents were recorded in Lusaka, Kalomo, Luwingu, Kasama, Isoka, Mafinga, Chingola, Mkushi and Kabompo.

Polling Agent Murder

In Matero, Lusaka, Police have arrested nine suspects in connection with the alleged murder of 57-year-old polling agent Lovemore Chishima.

According to Police, Chishima was allegedly assaulted by a group of people at Kasamba Polling Station on August 13 and later died.

The nine suspects are in Police custody as investigations continue.

In a separate incident, six male suspects were arrested after allegedly being found in possession of offensive weapons. Police said they recovered nine machetes, 22 rounds of ammunition and a Toyota Land Cruiser bearing registration number BAD 8622.

Police are also looking for Sean Tembo to assist with investigations.

Other Incidents

In Kalomo, Police arrested a suspect following an incident in which four people were allegedly assaulted. One person sustained a gunshot wound, while a firearm and ammunition were recovered.

In Kasama, Police are investigating an alleged attack on the residence of Northern Province Acting Permanent Secretary Beauty Undi-Phiri.

Police said the incident occurred on August 14 and involved a group of armed people suspected to be supporters of the National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity (NRPUP). One suspect has been arrested.

The Police Service is also investigating statements attributed to former Nkana MP Binwell Mpundu, in which he allegedly stated that he was ready to kill and be killed.

Police say such statements, if confirmed, could potentially incite violence and cause public disorder. Mpundu has been advised to make himself available to assist with investigations.

Road Blockages in Lusaka

Meanwhile, Police reported incidents involving rioting and road blockages in Chawama, parts of Kanyama Compound and Lusaka's Central Business District on Friday afternoon.

Officers have since been deployed to restore order and ensure the safety of members of the public.

Police have also warned against activities they say could amount to cyber-security-related and seditious offences, including alleged attempts by some local information technology experts working with foreign nationals to engage in unlawful activities.

Warning Over Unverified Results

The Zambia Police Service has further urged candidates and other stakeholders to refrain from announcing or disseminating unverified election results.

Police said the announcement and declaration of presidential election results is provided for under Section 73 of the Electoral Process Act No. 35 of 2016, and warned that unofficial results could cause confusion and disrupt public peace.

The Service has assured the public that all reported incidents are receiving attention and that anyone suspected of committing offences will be pursued and, where appropriate, brought before the courts.

Police have called on citizens to remain calm, avoid violence and refrain from taking the law into their own hands.

The Service says it will maintain heightened vigilance and strengthen security measures during the post-election period to safeguard peace, public safety and the rule of law.