The Chawama parliamentary by-election, held recently, has been lauded by political analyst and lawyer Dickson Jere as a significant positive indicator for Zambia’s democratic progression in anticipation of the upcoming August General Election. Jere highlighted the notable advancements in political conduct observed during the process, emphasizing that the outcome, irrespective of the winning candidate, would not diminish the political gains achieved within the country. He particularly praised the peaceful execution of campaigns, a stark contrast to the violence that marred the 2001 Chawama by-election, describing the recent contest as "one of the most peaceful in recent history."

Campaign activities saw political parties freely conducting roadshows and interacting without any reported incidents of violence or damage to property. Mr. Jere specifically commended the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) for its exemplary conduct, suggesting that such an environment is crucial for encouraging greater participation from women and other credible candidates in future electoral processes. He declared, "This is the kind of politics Zambians have always wanted," extending his commendation to the Chawama electorate for maintaining peace.

Furthermore, the Zambia Police Service received praise from Mr. Jere for their professional demeanor throughout the campaign period. He noted that law enforcement officers provided security equitably to all political parties and refrained from canceling opposition gatherings under the pretext of protection. This professionalism, according to Jere, mirrored the police’s conduct during Lusaka Archbishop Dr. Alick Banda’s recent appearance at the Drug Enforcement Commission, demonstrating a consistent commitment to impartial service.

Commenting on President Hakainde Hichilema’s approach to parliamentary by-elections, Mr. Jere described it as a commendable strategic move. The Head of State has notably abstained from campaigning in most recent by-elections, instead entrusting party functionaries with the campaigning responsibilities. This approach, Jere argued, promotes a fairer playing field, as a president’s presence often escalates security measures that can inadvertently restrict opposition activities. He clarified that while this is appropriate for by-elections, where the President is for all people regardless of the elected MP's party, it differs from general elections where the President is a direct candidate.

Despite the overall positive assessment, Mr. Jere expressed concern regarding the recurring violence in rural by-elections, questioning whether such disturbances are instigated by cadres imported from urban centers. He observed that "Rural people are generally peaceful, yet by-elections there are frequently marked by skirmishes," urging national reflection on this issue as Zambia prepares for the general elections.

Meanwhile, the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) board chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis provided an update after inspecting several polling stations, confirming that the voting process was progressing smoothly and without incident. As of midday, over 150 people had cast their votes across all polling stations, and Ms. Zaloumis expressed satisfaction that no violence had been reported.

In parallel political developments, Citizens First President Harry Kalaba revealed his attempts to forge an opposition alliance for the Chawama by-election, engaging with PF’s Given Lubinda and SP’s Dr. Fred M’membe. Kalaba explained that despite his party’s belief in unity, these talks broke down primarily due to unadhered timelines for candidate selection, which coincided with parliamentary proceedings on Bill No. 7, and an inability to agree on a single candidate. He emphasized Citizens First's consistent efforts to reach out for unity.

Kalaba also countered the notion that a fragmented opposition automatically benefits the ruling UPND. He cited the 2021 general election, where the incumbent President Edgar Lungu was defeated despite facing 16 opposition candidates, asserting that the populace often coalesces around a chosen candidate regardless of the number of contenders.

In a pointed address, Kalaba advised Chief Government Spokesperson Cornelius Mweetwa to consider submitting his curriculum vitae to Citizens First for potential adoption in the Choma Central seat for the August polls. Kalaba asserted that Mweetwa would not be adopted by the UPND, claiming Mweetwa was being overshadowed by younger party members and even undermined by President Hakainde Hichilema himself in favor of a deputy youth chairman in Choma. Kalaba stated, "This is his last term, the last three in that office. So you should understand him, he’s got that issue of saying ‘I’m going, I don’t know where I’m standing’."