THE ALLEGED PLOT TO DISRUPT ZAMBIA’S ELECTIONS BY TOONSE PAMODZI ALLIANCE

THE ALLEGED PLOT TO DISRUPT ZAMBIA’S ELECTIONS BY TOONSE PAMODZI ALLIANCE. A major security investigation has unfolded in Zambia, with authorities alleging that a network of individuals linked to political, business, cyber and military-related activities was working to interfere with the country’s electoral process ahead of the 2026 General Elections. According to information attributed to […]

THE ALLEGED PLOT TO DISRUPT ZAMBIA’S ELECTIONS BY TOONSE PAMODZI ALLIANCE.

A major security investigation has unfolded in Zambia, with authorities alleging that a network of individuals linked to political, business, cyber and military-related activities was working to interfere with the country’s electoral process ahead of the 2026 General Elections.

According to information attributed to the Ministry of Home Affairs and Internal Security, the investigation followed months of intelligence gathering by defence and security agencies. At the centre of the investigation are three former senior government officials, who authorities allege provided technical assistance intended to disrupt Zambia’s electoral system. They have since been arrested and are in custody.

But investigators say the matter goes far beyond the three former officials.

Authorities allege that some Zambian nationals travelled out of the country on 2 July 2026, allegedly with assistance from others, and subsequently underwent military-related training abroad. The investigation reportedly intensified after security agencies recovered military-style regalia, training certificates, notes, mobile phones and a laptop. Authorities further claim that sensitive military intelligence was found on some of the electronic devices.

The alleged trail then extended to Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, where three Zambian nationals — Dickson Tembo, Victor Zamba and Gideon Ezra Toropa — were reportedly intercepted after returning from abroad. A 56-year-old Kenyan national, Michael Juka, was also arrested over allegations that he had been contracted to engage in cybercrime targeting the state.

Businessman Valden Findlay has separately been arrested and charged in connection with the wider investigation and has reportedly appeared before court and been remanded in custody. Authorities further claim that investigations have identified other individuals who may have facilitated, financed or sponsored activities under investigation.

Another significant strand involves more than K7.3 million allegedly found in the possession of Japhen Mwakalombe, Mila Kakana and Sesho Banda. Authorities have reportedly asked the three to assist in establishing the source and intended purpose of the money. Through their lawyers, they are said to have indicated that they would only be available after 14 August 2026.

The investigation has also generated controversy over former ambassador Martha Nungu and journalist Hannah Katontoka. While claims emerged that the two had been abducted, the Ministry rejected the allegations, saying they had been apprehended to assist with investigations and were later released.

The scale and nature of the allegations have now transformed the matter into a major national security story. At its heart is the claim that individuals may have been attempting to interfere with systems connected to Zambia’s democratic process while also accessing sensitive state information and engaging in activities outside authorised security structures.

With the country heading into a crucial election, the allegations have inevitably raised questions about the safety and integrity of the electoral system — and whether what investigators have uncovered represents isolated activities or part of a much wider operation.

For now, security agencies say investigations are continuing and that other persons of interest are being pursued.

The government maintains that protecting national security and the integrity of the electoral process is its constitutional responsibility. At the same time, the seriousness of the allegations makes due process, transparency and credible evidence equally important.

The country is watching. The arrests have raised questions. The investigation is widening. And the biggest question remains: how far did the alleged operation go, and what was it ultimately intended to achieve?

All persons mentioned in connection with the allegations are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty by a competent court.

– Zambian Watch News.