The Zambia Association of Musicians (ZAM) has clarified that it has not endorsed any political party or candidate ahead of the 2026 General Elections, stressing that any political support expressed by individual musicians is made in their personal capacity and does not represent the association.
In a statement issued by its National Executive Committee, ZAM reaffirmed its position as a non-partisan professional body representing the interests of musicians across Zambia.
Individual Artistes Free to Support Candidates
ZAM acknowledged that every Zambian musician enjoys the constitutional right to support, endorse, or campaign for any political party or candidate of their choice.
However, the association emphasized that such decisions are personal and should not be interpreted as endorsements made on behalf of ZAM.
“As a professional body representing the interests of musicians across Zambia, ZAM firmly believes in the democratic rights and freedoms of all citizens, including artistes guaranteed under the Constitution of the Republic of Zambia,” the statement reads.
The association further stated that any artiste who publicly supports a political party or candidate does so based on their own convictions or interests.
ZAM Remains Neutral
The musicians’ body stressed that it has not endorsed and does not intend to endorse any political party or presidential, parliamentary, or local government candidate participating in the 2026 General Elections.
According to ZAM, its Executive Committee remains committed to maintaining the association’s non-partisan status throughout the election period.
The association warned against interpreting individual musicians’ political endorsements as representing the official position of ZAM.
Political Campaigns Present Business Opportunities
ZAM also recognized that election periods often provide employment opportunities for musicians and other creative professionals.
The association welcomed opportunities that allow its members to earn an honest income through performances and creative services for political parties or individual politicians.
However, it emphasized that such engagements should be conducted within the confines of the law and in accordance with professional ethics.
Call for Responsible Campaign Messaging
As political campaigns intensify, ZAM urged musicians participating in campaign activities to maintain high standards of professionalism.
The association encouraged artistes to focus on issue-based messaging that promotes peace, national unity, and respect for democratic values.
It further advised musicians to avoid hate speech, insults, character assassination, and any form of expression that could incite violence or divide citizens.
Appeal for Peaceful Elections
ZAM concluded by calling on political parties, musicians, supporters, and members of the public to contribute towards peaceful, respectful, and issue-based campaigns ahead of Zambia’s 2026 General Elections.
The association said responsible conduct by all stakeholders would help strengthen the country’s democracy while protecting the integrity of the music industry.
The statement was issued by the National Executive Committee of the Zambia Association of Musicians (ZAM).
