Zambia’s elections have been thrown into uncertainty after the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) suspended counting of votes across the country following reports of violence targeting election officials.
The suspension came barely a day after Zambians went to the polls to elect a president, members of Parliament and local councillors. The ECZ said the decision was taken because of the deteriorating security situation at some counting centres.
According to a statement issued by ECZ Chairperson Mwanga Zaloumis, the Commission had received reports of violence in some districts during the counting and announcement of results.
The violence was reportedly directed at polling staff. In some cases, marked ballot papers were allegedly stolen from ballot boxes.
“In view of the security situation and continued threats of violence, the Commission has with immediate effect suspended the counting and announcement of results throughout the country,” the ECZ said.
The election has attracted significant regional and international attention, with nearly 8.8 million registered voters expected to have participated in the presidential, parliamentary and local government polls.
The ECZ said it would review the decision within 24 hours.
The development has raised concerns over the credibility and smooth management of the electoral process, particularly as Zambia awaits results from a closely watched presidential contest.
President Hakainde Hichilema is seeking a second term after taking office in 2021. His main challenger is opposition leader Brian Mundubile of the Tonse Alliance. Analysts had widely regarded Hichilema as the favourite, although the opposition has mounted a strong challenge.
The election has attracted significant regional and international attention, with nearly 8.8 million registered voters expected to have participated in the presidential, parliamentary and local government polls.
Under Zambia’s electoral system, a presidential candidate must secure more than 50% of the vote to win outright. Failure to reach that threshold would trigger a second-round contest between the leading candidates.
The ECZ had originally scheduled the declaration of election results for August 17, although the latest suspension could affect the timetable.
