Dear Kuchalo Editor,
As Zambia heads toward the August 13 General Election, now only 79 days away, I write with a heavy heart from the United States of America, where many of us in the diaspora continue to watch developments back home with deep interest, concern, and patriotism.
Sadly, despite our love for Zambia and our desire to participate in shaping its future, many of us will once again not be allowed to vote because of restrictions that remain both unfortunate and discouraging.
For years, Zambians living abroad have contributed immensely to the nation through remittances, investments, skills transfer, and international advocacy.
Families survive because of support sent from the diaspora. Businesses have been built through money earned abroad. Yet when election season comes, we are often treated as though our voices do not matter enough to be heard at the ballot box.
It is painful that in 2026, with technology and modern electoral systems advancing across the world, Zambia still struggles to meaningfully include its citizens living overseas in national democratic processes.
Countries with fewer resources have managed to implement diaspora voting systems, whether through embassies, postal ballots, or secure digital frameworks.
Why should Zambia continue lagging behind on such an important democratic principle?
Even more troubling is the perception that authorities at home look at diasporans with suspicion, as though those living abroad are disconnected from the realities of the country or somehow less patriotic.
This should never be the case. Many of us left Zambia not because we stopped loving our homeland, but because we pursued education, work opportunities, or survival. No matter how far we travel, Zambia remains home.
We follow developments closely. We debate national issues daily. We support our relatives during difficult economic times.
We promote Zambia positively on the international stage. We are stakeholders in the future of our country and deserve to participate fully in its governance.
The inability to vote leaves many of us frustrated and alienated. Elections are not only about choosing leaders; they are about belonging.
Denying citizens abroad the practical means to participate sends a message that our contributions are welcome, but our democratic voices are not.
I believe Zambia must urgently begin serious reforms toward diaspora voting. This issue should not remain a campaign talking point that resurfaces every election cycle only to disappear afterward.
There must be political will from all stakeholders to ensure that no Zambian is excluded simply because they reside outside the country.
As the nation prepares for another historic election, I can only watch from afar, knowing I will not take part in a process that affects my family, my future, and my identity as a Zambian citizen. That reality is deeply disappointing.
I still remain hopeful that one day, Zambia will fully embrace all her children, whether at home or abroad, without suspicion, without barriers, and without exclusion.
Yours faithfully,
A Concerned Zambian in the DiasporaUnited States of America