Former Lusaka mayoral aspirant Chitambala Mwewa steps aside from the 2026 race, citing fears of violence, alleged threats, and consultations with family and party leadership.
Dateline: Lusaka, Zambia – May 21, 2026
Chitambala Mwewa, also referred to as Simon Mwewa in political circles, has officially withdrawn from the 2026 Lusaka mayoral race, ending his bid just days after receiving his adoption certificate.
In a public statement shared on May 20, 2026, Mwewa confirmed that he had been formally adopted as a candidate in the presence of senior party officials and expressed gratitude to Republican President Hakainde Hichilema for his support during the process.
However, Mwewa stated that he is stepping aside due to what he described as an “under current of violence” and threats allegedly linked to efforts surrounding alleged corruption concerns within the Lusaka City Council.
“FOR THE SAKE OF PEACE, I received my adoption certificate in the presence of all senior party officials on 20th May, 2026… however, there is an under current of violence that will erupt if I insist on filing my documents. The threats I am receiving are because of an attempt to cover up the massive corruption at Lusaka City Council. After consulting with my family and the Party, I have decided to step aside and not participate in this year’s elections. I love Lusaka forever,” he said in the statement attributed to Chitambala Mwewa.
The allegations of corruption and threats have not yet been independently verified by authorities, and no formal response has been issued by the Lusaka City Council or relevant electoral bodies at the time of publication.
Mwewa’s withdrawal is expected to reshape the competitive landscape of the Lusaka mayoral race, which has already attracted significant political attention ahead of the 2026 local government elections.
