THE UPND Alliance has urged youths and first time voters across the country to take full advantage of the upcoming mass voter registration exercise announced by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) as the country heads towards the 2026 general elections.
In a statement, Alliance spokesperson Leslie Chikuse said voter registration, which is set to begin on 13th October 2025, is a critical step in strengthening democracy and ensuring that citizens’ voices are heard at the ballot box.
Chikuse said the call is particularly directed at young people, who make up the majority of the population and represent the country’s future leadership.
“Participation in elections is the strongest expression of democracy. We therefore call upon all eligible citizens, especially the youth and first time voters, to register and safeguard their right to vote,” he said.
The statement follows a high level Alliance meeting held yesterday, chaired by Alliance chairperson and Infrastructure Minister Charles Milupi.
The meeting brought together representatives of all member parties to discuss matters of unity, coordination and the strategic direction of the Alliance as it prepares for the 2026 polls.
According to Chikuse, the meeting reaffirmed the Alliance’s commitment to unity of purpose, effective operations and policy direction that responds to the aspirations of Zambians.
He said the grouping is focused on delivering inclusive development, fighting corruption and promoting peace as election season approaches.
“Zambia’s stability is our greatest treasure. We categorically condemn all forms of violence, tribalism, hate speech and political intolerance. As we head towards 2026, the Alliance will champion peace, dialogue, and national unity,” stated Chikuse.
He explained that the Alliance intends to put forward policies that drive job creation, food security, social inclusion and economic growth.
He said particular emphasis will be placed on empowering young people, women, and marginalized communities, with the aim of ensuring that development benefits both rural and urban Zambia.
The Alliance also restated its position on accountability and transparency, stressing that public resources must be used for the benefit of citizens and not for private gain. “Only through accountability can sustainable development be achieved,” said Chikuse.
The statement further called on all stakeholders including political parties, civil society, the Church and citizens at large to take collective responsibility in addressing pressing challenges such as poverty, inequality, unemployment and climate change.
“These are not partisan problems; they are national problems that demand national solutions,” the Alliance noted.
The UPND Alliance said it will continue to engage with stakeholders as part of efforts to build a prosperous and progressive Zambia.
By Catherine Pule
Kalemba, September 10, 2025
