ECZ assures transparency in printing of ballot papers

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has assured Zambians that it is taking every stage of the electoral process with maximum caution to avoid public discontent, especially with regards to the on-going printing of ballot papers in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. ECZ Commissioner…

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has assured Zambians that it is taking every stage of the electoral process with maximum caution to avoid public discontent, especially with regards to the on-going printing of ballot papers in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

ECZ Commissioner Mcdonald Chipenzi says for a long time, the election governing body, has espoused an open-door policy to allow stakeholders to monitor the electoral process and contribute towards the perfection of the process even in previous years.

Speaking during a briefing in Dubai, Mr Chipenzi challenged stakeholders monitoring the printing process of ballot papers to avoid spreading misinformation.

“That is why you are here in [Dubai] because the Commission considers you as a key to this process. This is so, for you to own the process,” Mr Chipenzi said.

He observed that there has been a lot of speculation, which if not addressed can lead to public discontent.

He explained that at no time had the ECZ deliberately disregarded the need to engage its stakeholders in the electoral process

And the ECZ Commissioner noted that Zambians were keenly following what was happening on the printing process, adding that stakeholders have the duty to explain to citizens the correct position on every matter since they are involved in the process.

Mr Chipenzi noted that the electoral process had no loopholes for manipulation at any stage because of the nature of its transparency.

And the Commission has reiterated its commitment towards facilitating a credible electoral process ahead of the 2026 August 13 general elections.

So far, ballot papers for 15 out of 226 constituencies have been tightly packed while the printing of national assembly and local government election materials is underway.