Infighting within Zambia’s Tonse Alliance exposed persistent opposition challenges ahead of the 2026 elections, particularly around leadership authority and internal governance. Competing claims and the absence of judicial clarity turned procedural disputes into public confrontations, undermining unity and voter confidence. Analysts noted that continued fragmentation, including unresolved Patriotic Front disputes, reduced pressure on the ruling UPND and weakened the opposition’s ability to mobilize effectively.

Zambia and the Democratic Republic of Congo agreed to strengthen security along high-risk trucking routes to protect drivers and safeguard cross-border trade flows. The decision followed the 14th Joint Permanent Commission on Defense and Security meeting held in the DRC, where officials discussed rising attacks on truckers and persistent insecurity in eastern DRC. Both countries said improved coordination and patrols were necessary to reduce risks to international commerce and regional supply chains.

The Forum for Democracy and Development won the Chawama parliamentary by-election, with Bright Nundwe securing 8,085 votes ahead of UPND’s Morgan Muunda on 6,542. The poll, described as generally peaceful, drew 18,096 voters. The seat became vacant after former MP Tasila Lungu’s prolonged absence following the death of her father, former president Edgar Lungu. Nundwe received backing from PF factions and Tonse Alliance members.

Zambia’s High Court overturned the conviction of Violet Zulu, who had received a seven-year sentence for procuring an abortion. The court ruled that the lower court acted unlawfully by accepting a guilty plea without proper explanation of the charge. Judges noted that Zulu was unrepresented and had already served two years in prison. The court ordered her immediate release, citing violations of due process and fair trial rights.

Zambia’s government comfirmed that they plan to table a Free Education Policy Bill in parliament in February. Education Minister Douglas Syakalima said the bill will anchor the policy in law, ensuring learners are not excluded due to financial barriers. Reintroduced in 2021, free education boosted enrollment. The call for legislation aims to safeguard state funding and prevent future reintroduction of fees.

At a symposium hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Zambia, policy expert Jacob Malunga said China’s long-term development planning offers lessons for developing countries, citing policy continuity, strong institutions and flexible implementation. He said China’s success stems from consistent strategies with mechanisms to adjust to emerging challenges. Embassy officials said China’s experience and technologies align with Zambia’s development plans, highlighting cooperation opportunities between China’s Five-Year Plan and Zambia’s national strategies.