Kalaba urges  Defence Force to remain politically neutral as the country heads towards the August 13 elections.

LUSAKA – As Zambia gears up for the highly anticipated August 13 general elections, Democratic Party (DP) President Harry Kalaba has issued a poignant appeal to the Zambia Defence Force, urging them to maintain unwavering political neutrality. Kalaba's statement, delivered amidst heightened political campaigning, highlights the critical role the military plays in ensuring a free, fair, and credible electoral process. Speaking on the matter, Mr. Kalaba underscored that the mandate of the Zambia Defence Force transcends mere uniforms and parades. He stressed that their primary duty is to protect the Zambian people and the Constitution, a responsibility that demands strict impartiality, especially during periods of political transition. “The men and women in uniform are the custodians of our peace and stability,” Kalaba stated, “and their commitment to non-partisanship is paramount for the health of our democracy.” Zambia has a proud history of peaceful transitions of power, largely attributed to the professionalism of its security wings. However, concerns often emerge during election cycles regarding the perceived alignment of state institutions. Kalaba's intervention seeks to preempt any such perceptions, reinforcing the expectation that the Defence Force will operate strictly within its constitutional parameters, free from political influence or bias. The call for neutrality is particularly significant given the competitive nature of Zambian politics. An impartial military is crucial not only for maintaining law and order during the election period but also for instilling public confidence in the integrity of the electoral outcome. Any perception of bias could undermine the legitimacy of the results and potentially incite unrest, making the military's role as an apolitical guardian of the state indispensable. Political analysts have echoed Kalaba's sentiments, noting that a professional and neutral defence force is a cornerstone of any thriving democracy. Their