Zambia’s opposition is preparing for the 2026 general election without former President Edgar Lungu, whose death in 2025 left a leadership vacuum within the opposition coalition. Lungu had united several parties under the Tonse Alliance and was expected to lead its presidential campaign before his passing. In Lungu’s absence, the Tonse Alliance rebranded as the Tonse Pamodzi Alliance and endorsed Brian Mundubile as its presidential candidate. Analysts note that while Mundubile is campaigning on Lungu’s political legacy—particularly in competitive electoral battlegrounds like the Copperbelt mining region—the absence of a formally designated successor has created internal leadership friction. While some believe that this election will be more about economic concerns than political succession, experts say it will test whether Zambia’s opposition can remain united and broaden its appeal beyond Lungu’s personal popularity.
DW