Lusaka | March 19, 2026 – Over three days, a collection of voices, from Zambia and Kenya, illuminated the challenges, responsibilities, and opportunities in electoral justice at the fourth National Annual Prosecutors’ Conference. 733 prosecutors gathered under one roof to deliberate, share insights, and shape the future of democracy.
The conference opened with Ms. Mwangala Zaloumis, represented by Ms. Clementina Mwelwa, who reminded delegates that democracy lives in every vote. She spoke of the sacred duty to protect the ballot, a duty both solemn and urgent, and one that would echo throughout the next three days.
From there, the energy in the hall escalated. Attorney General Mulilo D. Kabesha, SC, reminded all that prosecutors are custodians of the constitution, tasked with responsibilities as heavy as they are essential. Justice is not optional; it is the lifeblood of democracy.
The courtroom took centre stage with Lady Justice Maria Mapani Kawimbe, who declared:
“The courtroom is where democracy’s promises are tested. Every trial is a defence of the ballot.”
Practical law in action was delivered by Mr. Bob Musenge, former ECZ Commission Secretary, who walked delegates through Zambia’s electoral offences and illustrated the interplay between statutes and justice in everyday life.
Voices advocating for inclusivity and equity rose with Mr. Chaponda Kuwani and the vibrant Ms. Sharon Handongwe, who championed electoral accessibility for persons with disabilities. Their message was clearly that democracy is incomplete if anyone is left on the sidelines.
The regional dimension came alive when His Lordship Isaac Lenaola shared lessons from Kenya, showing how experience across borders can strengthen electoral integrity at home. Similarly, Alloys Kemu, OGW, Secretary for Prosecution Services from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions in Kenya, stressed how prosecutors and Court Users Committees can unite efforts across the region to strengthen electoral systems.
Practical strategies for justice followed. Ms. Nkumbiza Mumba, Chief State Advocate at the NPA, laid out approaches for prosecuting electoral offences in the aftermath of violence, turning lessons into actionable strategies for prosecutors across Zambia.
The human cost of elections was a central thread throughout the conference. Dr. Tapiwa Nyasulu (UNFPA) delivered a searing address on violence against women, warning that digital abuse is as harmful as physical harm:
“Digital violence is electoral violence.”
Children also commanded attention. Ms. Maria Fernandez (UNICEF), Ms. Monde Chizongo (NPA), and Mr. Michael Musumali (World Vision) painted a vivid picture:
“Children are not weapons. They are future voters who must be protected today.”
Experience and precedent were highlighted by Ms. Matilda Kaoma, Vice President of the Law Association of Zambia, who shared case studies from electoral violence prosecutions, reminding delegates that history informs justice, and justice shapes the future.
Human rights perspectives were explored with depth and distinction by Dr. Pamela Towela Sambo and Ms. Moono Lubezhi, while practical strategies for resolving local government election disputes came from Hon. Prince Mwiinga, Registrar of the Subordinate Courts, who reminded the prosecutors that they too can be adjudicators in disputed local government elections while Ms. Mutinta Chilufya, Principal State Advocate at the NPA, demonstrated that democracy must function at every level from village tribunals to the highest courts.
The spotlight then fell on women’s political participation. Ms. Ann Anamela, Mr. Muzi Kamanga, and Ms. Womba Mayondi shared stories, statistics, and strategies, reminding all that a thriving democracy requires women fully present and empowered.
Digital threats and modern challenges were tackled head-on. Ms. Gracilia Mulenga, together with experts two cyber security addressed prosecuting hate speech and managing digital evidence, emphasising that the law must evolve with technology to safeguard democracy.
Ms. Dorah C. Mafabi delivered a sobering account of child trafficking risks during election periods, highlighting the unseen dangers that prosecutors must confront to protect Zambia’s youth.
Finally, the corrosive challenge of corruption was addressed by Mr. Kaumbu Mwondela, Mr. John Daka, and Ms. Priscilla Chikonde, highlighting that safeguarding democracy requires vigilance, rigour, and uncompromising standards.
The conference closed not with words, but with action. The NPA Legal Committee presented resolutions that captured the collective commitment of all participants – a roadmap to safeguard democracy, protect the vulnerable, and hold the line on justice.
Over three days, voices became vision. Debate became declaration. Insight became mandate. And the torch of electoral justice has been lit and its light will guide the way forward.