ECZ suspends counting and announcement of election results nationwide

29 Views The Electoral Commission of Zambia has with immediate effect suspended the counting and announcement of election results across the country, citing violence and security concerns. In a press release signed by ECZ Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis (SC), the Commission said it had “noted with concern reports of violence during the counting and announcement of […]

29 Views

The Electoral Commission of Zambia has with immediate effect suspended the counting and announcement of election results across the country, citing violence and security concerns.

In a press release signed by ECZ Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis (SC), the Commission said it had “noted with concern reports of violence during the counting and announcement of results in some districts.”

According to ECZ, the violence is targeted at Poll staff and in some instances has resulted in the theft of marked ballot papers 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 in accordance with Section 67 (3) of the Electoral Process Act No. 35 of 2016,” the statement reads.

The Commission says it will review the suspension within 24 hours.