Election Process Watch: Zambia’s Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) says political parties and civil society observers who toured ballot printing in Dubai found the process transparent, inclusive and credible, with millions of papers already produced and packing underway. Campaign & Governance: President Hakainde Hichilema told voters in Lusaka Rural to “keep moving forward,” pointing to free education and expanded public services as August 15 polls near. Legal Debate: Lusaka lawyer Dickson Jere argues the Constitutional Court should clarify whether a presidential candidate can replace a running mate if the running mate withdraws, warning that forcing a candidate to proceed without one undermines the law. Political Tensions: In Choma, reports say more than five people were injured in a clash between UPND and an Independent campaign team at Makalanguzu Market. Local Industry & Campaign Materials: UPND dismisses Tonse Alliance claims it was blocked from printing campaign materials at Mulungushi Textiles, saying the party sources printing both locally and abroad. ICT & Business Recognition: Malawian-owned SPARC Systems (Africa) wins two platinum awards at the Southern Africa Brand Quality Awards in Lusaka, boosting regional ICT visibility. Energy & Infrastructure: The African Energy Chamber calls for an interconnected electricity market to unlock industrial growth as grid failures and rising demand strain current systems. Roads & Trade: Zambia’s RDA awards contracts worth over K3.2 billion to rehabilitate the Livingstone–Sesheke road, targeting improved tourism and trade connectivity. Global Finance Pressure: China urges African states to shift debt repayments from the US dollar to the yuan, citing currency internationalisation and reduced dollar dominance. Sports & National Pride: Former Copper Queens coach Bruce Mwape is laid to rest in Chingola, with government and football stakeholders paying tribute to his contribution to women’s football.