Mundubile and Makebi Zulu Flee to UN Agency for Refuge

NRPUP leader Brian Mundubile and his running mate Makebi Zulu have sought refuge at a United Nations agency in Lusaka, in a dramatic turn of events following the declaration of Hakainde Hichilema as the winner of Zambia's 2026 presidential election. The move came hours after the Electoral Commission of Zambia declared Hichilema the winner with 2,967,326 votes (60.7%) against Mundubile's 1,856,217 (38%). Mundubile had earlier rejected the results, alleging manipulation. Reports indicate that security forces had visited Mundubile's property in connection with allegations of militia activity. Mundubile denied the claims, stating: "We had no militia weapons on my property." The situation has drawn international attention, with BBC Africa reporting that Zambia is "at a crossroads" as the opposition refuses to accept the official results. Meanwhile, immigration authorities reportedly foiled an attempt by Jonas Zimba, another opposition figure, to leave the country. The developments raise questions about post-election reconciliation and whether President Hichilema's call for unity in his inaugural address will be matched by actions to ensure political opponents are treated fairly under the law.