The Zambian government confirmed it will pay all farmers who supplied maize to the Food Reserve Agency by January 10, 2026. Officials said payments are already underway in phases, using funds from sales and financing institutions. Authorities emphasised that timely payments support farming households and national food security. Farmers expressed concern about delayed disbursements affecting planting, while the government assured them that mechanisms are in place to complete full payments on schedule.

The Drug Enforcement Commission’s public response to the summoning of Archbishop Alick Banda raised political concerns over the neutrality of law enforcement. Critics argued that DEC Director General Nason Banda’s media briefing, warnings and use of politically loaded language turned a routine legal process into a public spectacle. The incident fueled perceptions of intimidation and blurred lines between state power and moral voices, undermining confidence in impartial justice.

The Patriotic Front says it will hold its elective convention once court cases over party leadership are concluded. Acting president Given Lubinda said the timing is meant to safeguard the legitimacy of the process. He stresses that they welcome the end of prolonged uncertainty. Preparations are underway to elect substantive leaders, stabilize the party, and position it as a credible opposition ahead of Zambia’s 2026 elections.