AIPAC Urges Political Parties to Prioritise Manifestos Over Divisive Campaign Rhetoric

By Alain Kabinda 

LUSAKA, 7 July 2026 — With Zambia's general election just weeks away, the Acton Institute for Policy Analysis Centre (AIPAC) has called on political parties to place greater emphasis on explaining their manifestos rather than engaging in divisive political rhetoric.

In a statement issued to Daily News the independent public policy think tank AIPAC Executive Director Mr. Solomon Ngoma said that election campaigns should provide voters with a clear understanding of the policies and programmes political parties intend to implement if elected into office.

According to Mr. Ngoma, a party manifesto remains the most important document through which citizens can evaluate a political party's vision, priorities and commitment to national development.

 Mr. Ngoma argued that campaign platforms should be used to discuss practical solutions to Zambia's economic and social challenges instead of promoting messages that could fuel hostility or deepen political divisions.

The organisation also expressed concern over what it described as misleading information regarding voting rights during the election period. AIPAC reminded the public that the Constitution allows voters to elect an independent candidate for Member of Parliament while simultaneously voting for a presidential candidate from a political party.

Mr. Ngoma also warned against attempts to misinform citizens on their constitutional rights, stating that every eligible voter has the freedom to make independent electoral choices without intimidation or undue influence.

Mr. Ngoma further challenged parliamentary candidates to be realistic in the promises they make to voters. It observed that public expectations of elected leaders have grown over the years, with citizens increasingly demanding accountability and consistent engagement from their representatives.

The organisation noted that many Members of Parliament have previously lost public confidence after failing to maintain contact with their constituencies or deliver on commitments made during election campaigns. It urged aspiring legislators to focus on achievable commitments and to recognise the constitutional responsibilities attached to public office.

As Zambia prepares for the 13 August 2026 general election, AIPAC encouraged voters to critically assess campaign messages by comparing candidates' public statements with the commitments contained in their manifestos.

The institute argued that informed voting is essential to strengthening democratic governance and ensuring that electoral choices are based on policy proposals rather than political slogans or emotional appeals.

"The electorate deserves to hear practical solutions to the country's challenges," Mr. Ngoma said, adding that political parties should explain how they intend to implement their policies if entrusted with public office.

AIPAC also reaffirmed its role as an independent public policy think tank, saying it will continue monitoring campaign messages throughout the election period, particularly on policy issues. The organisation appealed to all political parties and candidates to conduct peaceful, respectful and issue-based campaigns that place national interests above partisan considerations.

With less than six weeks before Zambians cast their ballots, AIPAC believes the quality of campaign discourse will play an important role in helping citizens make informed decisions about the country's leadership over the next five years.