Gaborone - The Southern African Development Community (SADC) announced on Monday, November 24th, 2025, that it is dispatching its Electoral Advisory Council (SEAC) to the Republic of Zambia. This decision follows a formal complaint lodged by Ambassador Emmanuel Mwamba, Chairperson for Information and Publicity on behalf of the Patriotic Front (PF), regarding alleged manipulation of the upcoming 2026 General Elections.

In his detailed complaint to the SADC Secretariat, Ambassador Mwamba catalogued several serious concerns. He accused President Hakainde Hichilema of actively engaging in a process to undermine the largest political party in Zambia through the use of state institutions and the Judiciary. Furthermore, Mwamba alleged that President Hichilema had enacted draconian laws restricting citizens' freedom of expression, was pushing for constitutional amendments that would negatively impact the 2026 General Elections, and was systematically undermining the independence and autonomy of the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ).

Responding to Ambassador Mwamba's complaint in a letter dated November 23, 2025, Ms. Onalenna Nthase, Senior Secretary in the Directorate of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Affairs, confirmed that the SADC Secretariat had duly noted the concerns raised. She further stated that the issues highlighted by Mwamba fall squarely within the mandate of the SADC Electoral Advisory Council (SEAC). Coincidentally, the SEAC was already preparing to travel to Zambia to conduct a post-election review mission, in accordance with Article 7.3 of the revised SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections (2021).

Ms. Nthase emphasized the critical importance of these reviews. Such missions are essential for addressing any post-election conflicts, evaluating recommendations made by electoral observation missions, and serving as a platform to encourage Member States to implement all relevant recommendations emanating from SADC Electoral Observation Missions (SEOM) and SEAC Reports. The Secretariat will communicate with Ambassador Mwamba’s offices regarding the specific dates and venue for the SEAC consultations with electoral stakeholders in Zambia, based on ongoing consultations with the Zambian government. This forum is designated as the ideal platform for Mwamba to present his further representations on the matter.

The SADC Electoral Advisory Council (SEAC) itself is a specialized technical body. Its primary role is to provide expert advice to the Southern African Development Community on all matters pertinent to elections, democracy, and good governance across the region. The SEAC operates strictly in accordance with the established SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections, ensuring adherence to regional standards for fair and transparent electoral processes.