By Rahim Abdul
The Zambian Government has declared Thursday, August 13, 2026, a public holiday to allow citizens to vote in the country’s General Elections.
Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa announced the decision in a statement issued ahead of the elections.
Kangwa said the public holiday is intended to give eligible voters enough time to participate in the electoral process without being affected by normal work commitments.
He said the declaration has been made in accordance with the Constitution of Zambia, which provides for general elections to be held every five years.
According to Kangwa, Article 56 (1) and (2) of the Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Act No. 2 of 2016 provides that general elections shall be held on the second Thursday of August every five years.
“Government wishes to inform the nation that Thursday, August 13, 2026, has been declared a Public Holiday,” Kangwa said.
He said the move is aimed at facilitating the smooth participation of citizens in the elections.
The declaration means public offices, schools and most businesses are expected to close on Thursday to allow citizens across the country to exercise their democratic right to vote.
Kangwa has urged eligible voters to take advantage of the public holiday and participate in the electoral process.
He, however, clarified that the public holiday will only apply to Thursday, August 13.
“Friday, August 14, 2026, will not be a public holiday and shall therefore be a normal working day,” Kangwa emphasized.
The clarification means workers are expected to return to their respective workplaces on Friday following the conclusion of voting on Thursday.
