GIVEN KATUTA’S RUNNING MATE STEPS DOWN AHEAD OF ELECTION Independent presidential candidate Given Katuta’s running mate, John Nyirenda, has stepped down ahead of the August 13, 2026 General Election. In a letter addressed to the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), Mr. Nyirenda formally notified the Commission of his decision to withdraw as Rev. Dr. Katuta’s […]

GIVEN KATUTA’S RUNNING MATE STEPS DOWN AHEAD OF ELECTION

Independent presidential candidate Given Katuta’s running mate, John Nyirenda, has stepped down ahead of the August 13, 2026 General Election.

In a letter addressed to the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), Mr. Nyirenda formally notified the Commission of his decision to withdraw as Rev. Dr. Katuta’s running mate.

Mr. Nyirenda says he reached the decision after consultations with his family, friends and traditional leaders, and asked the Commission to take note of his withdrawal with immediate effect.

His withdrawal adds Ms. Katuta to the growing list of presidential candidates whose running mates have pulled out ahead of the election.

Citizens First leader Harry Kalaba and Organized People’s Party president Brian Mushimba have also been affected by the withdrawal of their running mates.

Meanwhile, the Constitutional Court is yet to rule on the legal status of presidential candidates whose running mates have withdrawn, including whether they will remain eligible to contest and be voted for despite their names already appearing on ballot papers.

By Diamond Tv.