Reimagining Zambia's Politics

With exactly 12 months until Zambia’s 2026 general elections, tribal politics remains a persistent force shaping the country’s democratic landscape. Despite the nation’s rich diversity of over 73 languages and ethnic groups, which should be a source of strength, political strategies that exploit ethnic identities for power have instead fostered division. Far from empowering marginalized communities, tribal politics promotes exclusion, entitlement and inefficiency. It has made people identify with their groups so strongly that they'll believe untruths — even far-fetched conspiracy theories — over any reality that conflicts with the values of their tribe. This essay argues that tribal politics must be eradicated through a commitment to unity, merit-based public office appointments and objective policy discussions. Reimagining politics in Zambia requires transcending tribal divisions to build a system where competence and shared national goals prevail over ethnic loyalties. 

Tribal politics in Zambia is driven by a complex interplay of economic, psychological, institutional and historical factors.

First, economic competition often fuels ethnic mobilization. In a resource-scarce environment like ours, different groups jostling for jobs, land and infrastructure often align along tribal lines. Recent social media posts, for example, highlight grievances from rural provinces that perceive neglect compared to urban centers like Lusaka. These disparities must be addressed through equitable, merit-based resource allocation, not through tribal favoritism. 

Second, psychological fears of domination by other ethnic groups amplify tribal identities. Scholars note that perceived threats to cultural or political influence drive groups to support tribal leaders. This dynamic has been evident in almost every general election in Zambia, where political campaigns have stoked fears of one tribe’s dominance. These divisive appeals must be replaced with objective discussions focused on national progress. Such rhetoric remains a default vote-hunting strategy for many politicians, undermining national unity

Third, weak institutions perpetuate tribalism by failing to ensure equitable resource distribution or address psychological needs for recognition. Zambia’s centralized governance system fuels perceptions of ethnic favoritism, as seen in accusations leveled against nearly all cabinet appointments. Moreover, some churches exacerbate this issue by aligning with politicians who promote tribal sentiments, undermining their role as neutral arbiters. The Penal Code’s Section 70(1), strengthened by the 2024 amendment bill, is a step toward curbing tribal hate speech and fostering institutional trust. However, its enforcement must carefully avoid stifling free speech to maintain institutional credibility.

Finally, Zambia’s colonial legacy entrenched ethnic divisions. Before colonialism, Zambian tribes lived in distinct areas with unique languages, customs, and myths. When the British arrived, their divide-and-rule tactics magnified differences, instigating conflicts over resources like water and pasture. These colonial policies sowed distrust among tribes, creating negative stereotypes that persist today. In modern Zambia, some educated elites weaponize tribalism, linking it to social status and determining access to opportunities. For example, during the 2026 campaign, politicians will be awarded pulpits to “greet the congregations,” a practice that erodes the church’s unifying role. This complicity undermines trust in both religious and political institutions.

In the present, tribalism has been weaponized by some members of the educated elite, linking it to social status and using it to determine people’s fortunes. Intellectuals on both sides of the political divide justify “ethnicity” as central to traditional culture and seek the framing of the party and state around it. Even more troubling is the role of some churches, which have aligned with politicians promoting tribal sentiments. As the 2026 general elections approach, it is common to see politicians seeking a pulpit to “greet the congregation,” a practice that undermines the church's role as a unifying force. This complicity erodes public trust in both religious and political institutions. The church is no longer trusted to be a neutral arbiter.

Eradicating tribal politics is essential for Zambia’s progress. A unified approach to resource allocation and leadership selection is critical. Transparent systems prioritizing need over tribe can dismantle ethnic patronage. For instance, infrastructure projects should target underdeveloped regions based on economic data, not political loyalty. Responsible enforcement of Section 70(1) can deter hate speech while preserving free expression. Media houses must foster objective discussions on priorities like education and infrastructure, rather than amplifying tribal grievances. The church, reclaiming its role as a moral authority, should reject tribal rhetoric and advocate for inclusive leadership.

Ultimately, appointments and jobs must prioritize qualifications and competence over tribal origin. Expecting every tribe to have a government seat is both divisive and inefficient. Instead, Zambia must build a system where talent and ideas prevail, transforming its diversity from a source of conflict into a wellspring of national strength. However, the political elite lack incentive for reform, as tribalism secures their power, leaving citizens to demand accountability.

In conclusion, tribalism in Zambia hinders democracy and socio-economic development. It persists as a channel for resources and benefits. to flow from those in power to their tribesmen, prioritizing tribal loyalty over national interest. Tribalism fuels underdevelopment, corruption, election rigging and violence. It undermines meritocracy, with unqualified individuals securing jobs based on tribe, leading to inefficient resource use. Natural resources in some regions are ignored or underutilized due to tribal biases. Bad governance thrives as tribes support their leaders blindly, while opposing tribes criticize even effective governments. Zambia’s path forward lies in fostering unity, enforcing equitable policies and prioritizing competence to harness its diversity for progress. Reimagining politics demands a collective commitment to a future where Zambia’s diversity fuels inclusive governance, not division.