Linda Kasonde, Brebner Changala File Petition Challenging Hichilema’s 2026 Election Victory
Former Law Association of Zambia president Linda Kasonde, governance activist Brebner Changala, and LCK Freedom Foundation Limited have filed a petition challenging the outcome of the August 13, 2026 presidential election, in which President Hakainde Hichilema was declared the winner by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ).
The petition names the Electoral Commission of Zambia, Attorney General Mulilo Kabesha, and President Hakainde Hichilema as respondents.
According to the petition, the applicants rely on a range of documents and reports which they say raise questions about the conduct and administration of the election.
Among the materials cited are election observation records produced by the Christian Churches Monitoring Group (CCMG), including its Long-Term Pre-Election Observation Reports, Continuous Voter Registration Report, statements relating to the 2025 mobile voter registration exercise, reports on violence during candidate nominations, and its Parallel Vote Tabulation (PVT).
Allegations Concerning Defence Force Deployment
In an affidavit verifying the facts relied upon in the petition, the petitioners state that they believe allegations concerning the deployment of the Zambia Defence Force to polling stations, totalling centres and the National Results Centre at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre are true.
The petition also refers to reports concerning the detention and questioning of opposition figures, including Brian Mundubile, George Chisanga, Trevor Mwamba and former Minister Mutotwe Kafwaya, by officers of the Zambia Army.
The petitioners further cite an ECZ statement dated August 14, 2026, concerning the suspension of the counting and announcement of election results.
Other Evidence Cited
The petition also refers to a joint civil society organisations’ statement dated July 31, 2026, concerning alleged SMS messages linking the Social Cash Transfer Programme to voting for President Hichilema.
In addition, the petitioners cite a joint civil society statement dated August 20, 2026, concerning the killing of former Minister and opposition leader Mutotwe Kafwaya.
Other documents relied upon include ECZ public records and press releases relating to the suspension of campaigns in Mazabuka Central Constituency, as well as statements condemning violence in Kabwe and Chawama constituencies.
Court Vacation Could Affect Proceedings
The petition comes at a time when Zambia’s courts are on Michaelmas vacation, which is scheduled to end on September 6, 2026.
During the court vacation, parties seeking to commence certain proceedings are generally required to first obtain permission from the court.
The case is expected to attract significant public and legal attention as the petitioners seek to challenge the presidential election outcome.
It is important to note that the allegations and claims outlined above form part of the petition and would be subject to responses from the respondents and determination by the court.
