16/08/2026
Maintaining Workplace Productivity Post-Election Period
By Owen Katongo Kabanda
The post-election period is important for every workplace. While employees may follow national developments, organisations must remain focused on delivering results, serving stakeholders and contributing to national development.
Management, HR, and employees should all play a role in sustaining productivity, professionalism, and employee well-being.
1. Reaffirm Organisational Priorities
Management must provide clear direction on priorities, deliverables and reporting expectations. The election moment should be acknowledged without allowing it to disrupt performance.
2. Communicate Clearly
Institutions should provide timely guidance on attendance, working arrangements and operational changes through authorised channels. This reduces uncertainty and keeps employees focused.
3. Manage Flexible Working Responsibly
Where conditions require adjustments, Management may consider flexible reporting times, remote working or other suitable arrangements, subject to operational needs. Employees working remotely must remain available and deliver agreed outputs.
4. Support Employee Health and Wellness
Employees may experience anxiety or uncertainty. Managers should remain attentive and refer those requiring assistance to HR, wellness, or counselling services.
Section 95 of the Employment Code Act No. 3 of 2019 requires employers to maintain policies covering health and wellness, performance management, grievances and workplace conduct.
5. Maintain Professional Conduct
Political discussions should not disrupt work or damage relationships. Employees must avoid arguments, intimidation, personal attacks, tribal or regional remarks and unverified information on workplace platforms. Workplace policies should be applied fairly.
6. Treat Employees Fairly
Section 5 of the Employment Code Act prohibits discrimination based on political or other opinion in recruitment, training, promotion, conditions of employment and termination. Workplace decisions must remain objective and professional.
7. Prioritise Safety and Business Continuity
Management should follow official information and assess developments affecting employees or operations. The Occupational Health and Safety Act No. 16 of 2025 reinforces workplace safety responsibilities.
Business continuity should be prioritised to ensure productivity.
8. Lead by Example
Leaders must remain calm, measured and focused on organisational responsibilities.
Employees must respect colleagues, protect working relationships, and continue to deliver on their assignments so that institutions fulfil their mandates.
Elections are an important part of Zambia’s democracy. After elections, institutions must continue functioning, and people must continue working together.
Everyone has a responsibility to contribute to institutional stability and Zambia’s national development.
One Zambia, One Nation.
At your service,
Owen Katongo Kabanda
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