ECZ Lifts Kambwili Suspension

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has today lifted the suspension of the PF’s Chishimba Kambwili, effective from midnight.

Kambwili was suspended on an indefinite basis on 30th June 2021 as a result of his failure to adhere to the Electoral Code of Conduct, particularly, the use of hate speech and holding of campaign rallies despite the guidance provided.

Commenting on the decision the ECZ’s Patricia Luhanga noted, “Following these sanction, Mr Kambwili has shown remorse through the apology he rendered to the Commission and indeed his conduct during the time of his suspension. Arising from this, the Commission would like to inform the media and members of the public that it has lifted the suspension of Mr Chishimba Kambwili effective midnight today.”

“Mr Kambwili is further advised to use appropriate language when conducting any campaigns,” she continued.

Luhanga also issued a reminder that use of language which incites hatred or violence in any form against any person shall not be tolerated as it contravenes the provisions of the Electoral Code of Conduct.

The removal of Kambwili’s suspension comes as President Lungu finds himself under increasing pressure to distance itself from tribal comments by expelling the former minister, including from members of his own party.

Among the comments Kambwili made that have attracted criticism are claims that Tonga people have no place in the Patriotic Front, which he was reported to have said during a PF rally in Chililabombwe. President Lungu has resisted such calls to date, even sending police to arrest those who question his judgement. In Luanshya, the NDC’s media director Emmanuel Malite was arrested after publicly urging the president to expel Kambwili from the PF and accusing Kambwili of going on a “rampage cruse of tribal remarks”. Malite was subsequently arrested and moved to a prison in Lusaka.