Zambia will host a three-day high-level meeting in Livingstone from January 8 to 10, 2026, to address the worsening security situation in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. The meeting convenes at the request of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region. The talks will bring together defense ministers and military chiefs from all 12 member states. Defense Minister Ambrose Lufuma is expected to chair the meeting.

The Telegraph named President Hakainde Hichilema among its World Leaders of 2025, citing Zambia’s economic recovery under his leadership. The paper noted progress in debt restructuring, fiscal discipline and restored investor confidence after Zambia’s 2020 default. Despite drought-related setbacks, growth is forecast to exceed 5% in 2025, driven largely by mining expansion and institutional reforms. The World Leaders of 2025 list highlights heads of government who made a significant global impact over the past year.

The United for Better Zambia (UBZ) Party withdrew from the Tonse Alliance Council of Leaders, citing leadership failure, internal conflicts and lack of discipline. UBZ president Hector Soondo said the alliance has lost focus, marginalized smaller parties and failed to address key national challenges. The All People’s Congress also signaled possible withdrawal, arguing that persistent wrangles have undermined the alliance’s credibility as an opposition force.

Zambian opposition parties condemned a reported U.S. military operation in Venezuela, calling it a violation of international law and a threat to global stability. Socialist Party leader Fred M’membe described the alleged capture of President Nicolás Maduro as an act of aggression driven by resource interests. Golden Party of Zambia leader Jackson Silavwe also warned the move could destabilize Venezuela and set a dangerous international precedent.

Patriotic Front member Mumbi Phiri criticized party members for airing internal disputes publicly. She said the behavior is childish and damaging to the PF’s credibility. She warned that public infighting creates an image of disunity, weakens the party’s leadership standing and benefits political rivals. Mumbi urged leaders to resolve disagreements through internal structures, stressing that discipline, unity and responsible communication are essential for rebuilding public trust.

Zambia’s Drug Enforcement Commission summoned Lusaka Archbishop Alick Banda over allegations linked to a vehicle.  The Catholic Church said the move is politically motivated. The Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops condemned the probe as intimidation and abuse of state power, arguing the matter was previously investigated with no charges against Banda. The case sparked wider debate on governance, accountability and church–state relations ahead of elections.