By Burnett Munthali

LUSAKA- (MaraviPost)- Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema bid farewell to his Cabinet Ministers on Thursday, marking a significant milestone in the country’s electoral calendar.

The farewell meeting, held at State House, was a poignant moment for Hichilema as he addressed ministers serving in his administration, reflecting on their achievements and the challenges ahead.

The Cabinet meeting was effectively the final full sitting of ministers under the first term of the UPND administration, which came into office in August 2021 after defeating the Patriotic Front government led by late former President Edgar Lungu.

During its first term, the Hichilema administration implemented several economic and governance reforms, including debt restructuring negotiations, reintroduction of free education up to Grade 12, and increased Constituency Development Fund allocations.

The dissolution of Parliament, scheduled for Friday, May 15, 2026, officially marks the transition into the campaign period for the August 13 general elections.

The elections are expected to be highly competitive, with opposition parties mobilizing against the ruling UPND, which seeks a second term in office under Hichilema’s leadership.

In his farewell address, Hichilema expressed gratitude to his ministers for their service, acknowledging the progress made while emphasizing that much work remains to be done.

He urged Zambians to deliver a harvest in the upcoming elections, symbolizing a prosperous future for the nation.

Zambia’s Parliament dissolves, paving way for 2026 General Elections

By Burnett Munthali

LUSAKA- (MaraviPost)- The National Assembly of Zambia has officially dissolved, marking a significant milestone in the country’s electoral calendar.

This move is in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution of Zambia, ahead of the 2026 General Elections.

The Fifth Session of the Thirteenth National Assembly adjourned sine die on Tuesday, 12th May 2026, as announced by Acting Clerk of the National Assembly, Loveness Mayaka, in a press statement dated 14th May, 2026.

This sets the stage for the country’s electoral commission to finalize preparations for the upcoming elections.

Article 81(3) of the Constitution provides that Parliament shall stand dissolved ninety days before the holding of the next general election.

This constitutional provision ensures a smooth transition and allows sufficient time for electoral preparations.

The Constitution also stipulates that a general election shall be held every five years after the last general election on the second Thursday of August, as outlined in Article 56(1).

With the second Thursday of August 2026 falling on 13th August, the dissolution of Parliament on 15th May 2026 is a timely move.

The combined effect of these Constitutional provisions is that in an election year, Parliament stands dissolved automatically ninety days before the second Thursday of August, paving the way for the Electoral Commission of Zambia to oversee a free and fair election.

The dissolution of Parliament marks the beginning of a new chapter in Zambia’s democratic journey, with the country gearing up for the August 2026 General Elections.

The electoral commission is expected to announce the nomination process and other key dates in the coming days.