This study by Transparency International Zambia, supported by BBC Media Action, examines how political parties in Zambia manage their finances and the risks of illicit funding. Based on a survey of 28 political parties and supporting desk research, the report finds very low levels of transparency across the sector, with 75% of parties scoring in the lowest transparency category. Most parties do not publish financial records, lack proper financial management systems, and fail to conduct due diligence on donations.
The study also reveals a high risk of illicit financing, driven by the acceptance of anonymous donations, foreign funding, and contributions from businesses involved in public procurement. These challenges are largely linked to the absence of a law regulating political party financing, despite constitutional provisions requiring it. The report calls for urgent legal reforms, stronger oversight, improved financial management within political parties, and increased scrutiny by civil society and the media to protect electoral integrity and strengthen democracy in Zambia.
