Livingstone Central Member of Parliament Rodney Sikumba has announced that he will not seek re-election in Zambia’s upcoming August 13, 2026 general elections, choosing instead to rally behind President Hakainde Hichilema and the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND).
In a statement released on Sunday, Sikumba described his time serving the people of Livingstone since 2021 as a privilege and thanked residents, supporters, and stakeholders who stood with him throughout his tenure.
The outgoing lawmaker said his decision followed reflection on the political direction of the country and the need to strengthen support for President Hichilema ahead of the highly anticipated national polls scheduled for August 13, 2026.
Sikumba noted that several development projects initiated during his term remain ongoing, adding that he remains committed to supporting efforts aimed at improving the welfare of the people of Livingstone even outside Parliament. He further expressed gratitude to residents for the trust and confidence they placed in him during his time in office.
The announcement comes amid a wave of political realignments and withdrawals ahead of the 2026 general elections. Recent weeks have seen several political figures either stepping down from parliamentary races or shifting their support toward the UPND leadership.
Sikumba, who also served as Zambia’s Minister of Tourism under the Hichilema administration, has been one of the notable political figures in Southern Province and within the ruling party since the 2021 elections.
His withdrawal from the Livingstone Central parliamentary contest is expected to trigger increased attention on who the UPND will adopt as its preferred candidate for the constituency ahead of nominations and campaign activities.
The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has already confirmed that campaigns for the 2026 elections will officially run from May 23 to August 12, with Parliament having recently adjourned ahead of the dissolution process tied to the national elections.
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