Political parties tipped to promote issue based competition
“ECZ Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis advised that while the commission is mandated to manage elections, success in the electoral process depends on a number of factors, including the conduct of all stakeholders such as political parties and candidates”
Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) Board Chairperson State Counsel (SC) Mwangala Zaloumis (left) with a staff member (right).
By Juliet Makwama
The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has urged aspiring presidential candidates to promote peaceful and issue based political competition ahead of the general elections this year.
ECZ Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis advised that while the commission is mandated to manage elections, success in the electoral process depends on a number of factors, including the conduct of all stakeholders such as political parties and candidates.
Speaking when the ECZ held a dialogue with political parties in Lusaka, Ms Zaloumis said aspiring presidential candidates should adhere to the legal and procedural requirements while engaging with the commission constructively.
“Let us all remember that elections are not merely contests for power, but processes through which the will of the people is expressed,” Ms Zaloumis said.
The meeting was held to provide an update on the 2026 general election roadmap and to give clarity and guidance to political parties on the nomination process.
The meeting with political parties discussed the pre-processing of supporters for presidential candidates, which Ms Zaloumis said was a critical step in ensuring compliance and efficiency during nominations.
The meeting also discussed the nomination fees applicable for the various elective positions this year, as well as the timetable and key dates.
Among the resolutions made during the meeting was that for the pre‑processing of the 100 supporters for presidential candidates, political parties and independent candidates must write to the commission expressing interest for their supporters to be processed in the provinces.
Further, political parties and independent candidates wishing to have their supporters pre‑processed must pay the nomination fees for presidential candidates by 29th April 2026.
Ms Zaloumis said it is important that all political parties fully understand and comply with the requirements as they will not only ensure a smooth nomination process, but contribute to the overall credibility and integrity of the elections.
“The 2026 General Election is unique in that it is being held after a Constitutional Amendment which increased the number of constituency-based seats in the country from 156 to 226 as you are aware. The amendment also introduced a new electoral system -the Mixed Member Proportional Representation (MMPR) system. These constitutional amendments have triggered proposed amendments to the Electoral Process Act which is yet to be tabled before Parliament,” Ms Zaloumis said.
She said it is the responsibility of all stakeholders to ensure a fair election process, and the commission is committed delivering a free, fair, credible and transparent election while upholding the highest standards of professionalism and integrity.
The meeting also resolved that the commission will engage the Registrar of Societies regarding concerns on the registration of political parties highlighted in the meeting, such as the failure to update office bearers.
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