EU for dialogue, reconciliation

…as it volunteers to support initiatives aimed at promoting Zambia’s social cohesion, inclusivity, democratic resilience, while respecting the country’s sovereignty, institutions and democratic processes, concerned about the civic space and political environment

By MUBITA KATETE

THE European Union (EU) has expressed its readiness to support national dialogue and reconciliation process in Zambia following the acrimonious August general election, which resulted into the arrest and detention of Brian Mundubile, his running mate Makebi Zulu and 16 others accused of treason.

The EU says should Government consider to take the route of dialogue and reconciliation following the August 2026 general elections, it would be ready to help the country to heal for the sake of peace and unity.

European External Action Service Director for Africa Francesca Di Mauro said the EU was prepared to support initiatives aimed at promoting social cohesion, inclusivity and democratic resilience, while respecting Zambia’s sovereignty, institutions and democratic processes.

Speaking during the second Zambia-EU Partnership Dialogue, Ms Di Mauro said the offer came amid concerns raised by domestic and international stakeholders regarding the electoral process, civic space and the political environment.

Should Government consider to take the route of dialogue and reconciliation following the August 2026 general elections, the European Union would be ready to help. The offer has come because of the concerns raised by domestic and international stakeholders regarding the electoral process, civic space and the political environment,” Ms Di Mauro said.

She stressed the importance of addressing electoral grievances through transparent, fair and impartial judicial processes in accordance with Zambian law.

Ms Di Mauro also reaffirmed the EU’s willingness to work with Government and electoral stakeholders in implementing recommendations from its Election Observation Mission to strengthen future electoral processes.

Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister Mulambo Haimbe said Government should have been given an opportunity to formally consider and provide its observations on the EU Election Observation Mission’s final report before it was made public.

Mr Haimbe said such an opportunity would have allowed for a more balanced assessment of the electoral environment by incorporating Government’s perspectives and clarifications.

He acknowledged the importance of the mission’s recommendations in improving electoral administration, institutional capacity, transparency and public confidence.

However, Mr Haimbe emphasised that election observation missions should operate within their established mandates and respect Zambia’s sovereign processes, including matters relating to national security.

 “Zambia remains committed to engaging the European Union in good faith, in line with our constitutional and legal framework, as well as our regional and international obligations,” he said

Mr Haimbe further underscored the importance of constructive engagement between Zambia and the EU in addressing areas of concern while strengthening democratic institutions and governance.