The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has increased presidential nomination fees for candidates ahead of the 2026 general elections.
ECZ Chief Electoral Officer Brown Kasaro disclosed that the Commission has set nomination fees at K100,000 for male presidential aspirants and K90,000 for female candidates, an amount that has been agreed upon.
He, however, said the Commission will revert to stakeholders on the nomination fees for Members of Parliament, mayoral candidates, and councillors.
Meanwhile, in an interview with Diamond News, Socialist Party President Dr. Fred M’membe said it is unreasonable for the Commission to require candidates to pay nomination fees.
On the contrary, National Democratic Congress (NDC) President Saboi Imboela welcomed the new fees, saying the increase is minimal.
Meanwhile, ECZ Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis said the Commission will deliver a free, fair, and transparent 2026 general election.
Speaking during a meeting with over 50 presidential aspirants, Ms Zaloumis said the Commission will continue to provide timely information, facilitate stakeholder engagement, and uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity in the discharge of its mandate.
Zambia goes to the polls on August 13, 2026.
By Darius Choonya
