Losing candidates rush to court to challenge election results

Audio article Listen to this story Share Send this story SEVERAL candidates who lost in Zambia’s Aug. 13 general election have filed petitions in the High Court seeking to nullify results in at least six constituencies, citing irregularities. The contested seats include Nkana,…

Audio article Listen to this story Share Send this story SEVERAL candidates who lost in Zambia’s Aug. 13 general election have filed petitions in the High Court seeking to nullify results in at least six constituencies, citing irregularities. The contested seats include Nkana, Kalabo South, Bangweulu, Siavonga, Zambezi Central and Ndola Central. In Kalabo South, independent candidate Mooto Kalowa is challenging the election of United Party for National Development lawmaker Chiinga Miyutu. Miyutu was re-elected with 5,590 votes to Kalowa’s 4,147. Kalowa alleges vote buying and violations of electoral law. In Nkana, UPND candidate Francis Mukuka is challenging the election of National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity lawmaker Alexander Chiteme. Chiteme won with 19,344 votes to Mukuka’s 9,359. Mukuka cites interference with electricity at polling stations, removal and intimidation of his agents, failure to secure ballot papers after counting, and irregular transportation of election materials. In Bangweulu, NRPUP candidate Anthony Kasandwe is challenging UPND’s Happy Mampa, who won with 13,012 votes to Kasandwe’s 12,071. Kasandwe alleges irregularities, including that he led by more than 700 votes from a polling station whose results were not announced. In Siavonga, independent candidate Brave Mweetwa is challenging UPND’s Darius Mulunda. Mulunda won with 11,909 votes to Mweetwa’s 10,450. In Zambezi Central, independent candidate Raphael Ngimbu is challenging UPND’s Dennis Mano. Mano won with 8,336 votes to Ngimbu’s 7,816, a margin of 520 votes. Ngimbu alleges corruption, bribery, violence and intimidation. Former Transport Minister Frank Tayali is also challenging his loss in Ndola Central. Resolute Party candidate Emmanuel Mulenga won with 11,659 votes, narrowly defeating Tayali, who received 10,840 votes. Tayali alleges election irregularities.

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