20/09/2026
Mutual Engagement resolves concerns Diplomatically
GODAZA backs govt on EU diplomatic engagement
GOVERNANCE and Development Advocates Zambia (GODAZA) has backed Government’s decision to engage the European Union through diplomatic channels over concerns surrounding Zambia’s post-election situation.
GODAZA executive director Elias Mulenga said Government has handled the matter in a mature, measured and diplomatic manner.
Mulenga said the decision to pursue dialogue instead of confrontation is important in maintaining Zambia’s relationship with the European Union.
“We commend the Government for choosing constructive engagement and dialogue rather than confrontation,” Mulenga said.
He explained that the approach reflects responsible governance and a maturing democracy in Zambia.
Mulenga cited Article 41 of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations of 1961, which he said promotes mutual respect for sovereignty and friendly relations between states.
He also pointed to Article 14 of the Constitution of Zambia, saying it provides for a foreign policy based on mutual respect and cooperation.
According to Mulenga, Zambia and the European Union have a long-standing partnership built around democracy, human rights, good governance and sustainable development.
He said cooperating partners have a right to raise concerns, just as a sovereign country has the right to provide its position through established diplomatic channels.
Mulenga has, however, cautioned against turning bilateral concerns into public confrontations that could damage relations between Zambia and the EU.
“Bilateral concerns should not be turned into public confrontation that undermines mutual trust,” he said.
Mulenga has since appealed to the European Union to continue using the Political Dialogue Framework provided for under Article 8 of the Samoa Agreement when addressing concerns with Zambia.
GODAZA’s statement comes after Government challenged a European Parliament resolution on Zambia’s post-election situation and called for formal engagement with EU institutions.
Government has maintained that the resolution was adopted before the final report of the EU Election Observation Mission was published and without prior engagement with the Zambian authorities.
Kalemba September 20, 2026