- Zambia's electoral commission has suspended its vote counting in Thursday's election, citing reports of violent attacks on election workers and the alleged theft of marked ballots.
- The suspension has triggered widespread concern about the election in Zambia, traditionally one of Africa’s most stable democracies.
- Mwangala Zaloumis, chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Zambia, stated, “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.”
- Unconfirmed reports indicate that four Zambian cabinet ministers had lost their parliamentary seats in the election.
- Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, elected in 2021, was widely seen as the front-runner in the election, but a strong showing by the main opposition candidate, Brian Mundubile, has tightened the race.
Zambia's electoral commission suspended vote counting in the presidential election amid reports of violence against election workers and ballot theft. Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis stated, “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.”13
The suspension has raised concerns about the integrity of the election in a nation known for its democratic stability. President Hakainde Hichilema, who was elected in 2021, is seeking a second term but faces a strong challenge from Brian Mundubile, the main opposition candidate. Reports suggest that four cabinet ministers may have lost their parliamentary seats, indicating a potential shift in political power.25
The electoral commission's decision comes less than 24 hours after polling stations closed, highlighting the urgency of the situation. Observers are closely monitoring the developments as Zambia navigates this critical electoral period, with implications for its democratic future.
“Electoral Commission chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis cited 'continued threats of violence' in Friday's suspension, less than 24 hours after polls closed. Unconfirmed reports say four cabinet ministers lost their parliamentary seats, while Brian Mundubile's strong showing has tightened the race.”
The Globe and Mail
BBC
