Zambia's opposition navigates 2026 race without Edgar Lungu, backs Brian Mundubile
Following Edgar Lungu’s death, Zambia’s opposition coalition has nominated Brian Mundubile to challenge incumbent Hakainde Hichilema in the 2026 election.
Edgar Lungu’s death in June 2025 removed the figure who had long unified Zambia’s opposition parties. In response, the rebranded Tonse Pamodzi Alliance endorsed former Patriotic Front member Brian Mundubile as its 2026 presidential candidate, with Makebi Zulu as his running mate. Political analyst Neo Simutanyi notes that while Lungu can no longer campaign, his influence persists through candidates invoking his legacy, particularly in the Copperbelt mining heartland.
Coalition secretary-general Celestine Mukandila claims a “Plan B” is now operational, keeping the alliance cohesive. Voters express mixed priorities, with some focusing on economic issues over personalities. The election will test whether the opposition can maintain unity and compete without Lungu’s personal pull, mirroring challenges seen in other Southern African nations.
Why it matters
The story shows how Zambia’s opposition will contend with a major leadership loss ahead of a pivotal national election.
In this story