Student leaders at the University of Zambia Students Union (UNZASU) have been formally called upon to step down following the death of a fellow student, in a development that has heightened tensions on campus.
In a statement dated April 1, 2026, a collective of Mother Body Association presidents expressed deep concern over the incident, describing it as a tragedy that has shaken the student community and exposed what they have termed as a lack of urgency in addressing critical student issues.
The student leaders criticized the union’s response to ongoing challenges, particularly pointing to deteriorating sanitation conditions within the University of Zambia, and warned that the situation poses serious health risks and reflects ineffective student representation.
According to the statement, the current state of affairs has raised concerns about student safety and eroded confidence in the union’s leadership.
The association presidents have since urged the UNZASU President, Vice President, and Secretary General to step down in a peaceful and honorable manner in order to restore accountability and rebuild trust among students.
In addition, the group has appealed to university management to consider temporarily closing the institution to allow for maintenance works and improvements to student living conditions.
The statement has been signed by student bodies, including UNZASEDA, UNZAHSSA, UZES, UNZAVETSA, UNZAAGRICAS, and LINZAMS.
By Mulenga Chipampe Makasa
