Zambia Law Association challenges ECZ presidential campaign timetable

The Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) has warned the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) that any presidential campaign timetable introduced during the current electoral period must be lawful, consultative and consistent with constitutional rights. LAZ criticised an ECZ advisory dated 18 June 2026 that would require all presidential candidates to follow a timetable to be drawn up by the commission, noting that the decision was announced before any meaningful consultation with candidates or political parties.

LAZ President Arnold Kaluba said that limits on freedom of assembly and association – guaranteed by Article 21 of the Zambian Constitution – must be authorised by law, pursue a legitimate objective and be proportionate. The association called on ECZ to engage all stakeholders and to rescind the timetable decision until proper consultations are completed.