Election Integrity & Campaign Tension: Supporters of NRC presidential candidate Brian Mundubile are urging voters to bring their own pens to polling stations on August 13, claiming ECZ pens will make marks disappear—while the ECZ has yet to respond directly to the allegation. Political Climate: Governance expert Professor Namukolo Miyanda says international election observers in Zambia are “passive and toothless,” as the country heads to the vote in five days. Southern Province Stakes: Analysis highlights internal debate within the Tonse Pamodzi Alliance over whether to campaign in Southern Province amid security fears, even as President Hakainde Hichilema calls for opposition freedom to campaign. Church & Politics: Catholic bishops have pushed back on Lusaka Archbishop Alick Banda’s planned “candlelight” mass, warning it could be seen as politically charged ahead of the election. Health & Service Delivery: ZUNMO urges newly recruited volunteer nurses not to fear rural postings, saying access to care should not depend on where someone lives. Energy & Development: Government says it has invested US$84.2m in the 100MW Kasama solar project to strengthen Zambia’s electricity supply. Culture & Society: Sungura musician DT Bio Mudimba drops “Pakala Africa,” a song rooted in Zambezi Valley history, identity and unity.