LAZ urges ECZ to lift nationwide suspension of election results

THE Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) on Friday urged the Electoral Commission of Zambia to reconsider and rescind its nationwide suspension of the counting and announcement of election results, particularly in areas not affected by violence. Speaking at a media briefing, LAZ President Arnold Kaluba called on the Commission to resume the counting, collation and

Audio article Listen to this story Share Send this story

THE Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) on Friday urged the Electoral Commission of Zambia to reconsider and rescind its nationwide suspension of the counting and announcement of election results, particularly in areas not affected by violence.

Speaking at a media briefing, LAZ President Arnold Kaluba called on the Commission to resume the counting, collation and announcement of results “without unnecessary delay” wherever it is safe and lawful to do so.

Kaluba also challenged ECZ to clearly state the legal and factual basis for any suspension that remains in effect. He said the Commission should continue providing timely, transparent and accurate information to the public to maintain confidence in the electoral process.

“LAZ urges all political parties, candidates, supporters and members of the public to remain calm, reject violence and allow the ECZ to discharge its constitutional mandate within the law,” Kaluba said.

He further called on all stakeholders to respect the independence of the ECZ and the jurisdiction of the courts.

The Commission on Thursday suspended the counting and announcement of results nationwide, citing violence targeting poll staff and theft of ballot papers in some districts. ECZ Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis said the decision was made under Section 67 (3) of the Electoral Process Act No. 35 of 2016 and would be reviewed within 24 hours.

Advertisement Advertise here Reach readers inside premium article pages.

Engage with this story

Comment 0Likes 0Reactions 0Comments 0Shares Be the first reader to react to this story

Discussion

Join the Conversation

Share your thoughts. Let's keep it respectful and constructive.

Start the discussion Sort by: No comments yetBe the first to bring a thoughtful perspective to this story. Comment as a guest No account is needed. Sign in only if you want your comment tied to your profile. Sign in instead