LUSAKA – The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) anticipates a highly competitive race, with more than 15 prospective candidates expected to file nominations today for the Chawama parliamentary by-election set for January 15, 2026. The nomination process officially begins the contest to replace former Chawama Member of Parliament Tasila Lungu, whose seat was declared vacant by Speaker of the National Assembly Nelly Mutti on November 28, 2025. The declaration was made under Article 72(2)(c) of the Constitution, following Ms.
Lungu’s prolonged absence from parliamentary duties after the death of her father, former President Edgar Lungu, on June 5. Several political parties and independent aspirants have confirmed their participation. Among them is Namakau Silumesi, standing on the FDD-Tonse Alliance ticket, and independent candidate Elijah Siatwambo.
The independent field is particularly active, with at least four candidates, including George Mwenya from Binwell Mpundu’s Ichabaice political grouping. A diverse array of political parties has also entered the fray, including the Socialist Party, Movement for Change and Equality, Leadership Movement, and Citizens First—which will be represented by Clint Mulenga. Other contenders are the Exodus Party for Peace and Prosperity, New Congress Party, and the Resolute Party, which has fielded Alex Katepu.
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The vacancy arose after former MP Tasila Lungu, who had remained outside Zambia following her father’s passing, failed to resume her parliamentary duties. Despite being granted compassionate leave and subsequently written to by Parliament, she did not return. Her request to participate in parliamentary sittings virtually was rejected by the Speaker, who ruled that online representation would not adequately serve the constituents of Chawama.
“It is of particular concern that Miss Lungu has not rendered representation to the people of Chawama since June 2025,” Speaker Mutti stated before the National Assembly voted to declare the seat vacant. With nominations now open, political focus shifts to Chawama as candidates begin the process of seeking to convince voters they are the right choice to represent the constituency in Parliament. Is the Picture trying to tell us something ? I certainly hope not
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