UN says it has no election observation mandate in Zambia

THE United Nations in Zambia on August 14, 2026 refuted claims circulating on social media that UN observers congratulated a presidential candidate after the August 13 elections. In a press release, the UN clarified it has no electoral observation mandate in Zambia and did not deploy any observers for the polls. It said any reports

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THE United Nations in Zambia on August 14, 2026 refuted claims circulating on social media that UN observers congratulated a presidential candidate after the August 13 elections.

In a press release, the UN clarified it has no electoral observation mandate in Zambia and did not deploy any observers for the polls. It said any reports suggesting UN endorsement, congratulations, or comments on candidates or results are “false and misleading.”

“The United Nations does not observe national electoral processes unless mandated by the General Assembly or the Security Council,” said UN Resident Coordinator Beatrice Mutali. “While the UN supports Member States in strengthening democratic institutions, it does not pronounce itself on the validity of an electoral process or the legitimacy of electoral outcomes.”

The UN condemned the “inappropriate and unlawful use of UN emblems” and urged the public and media to verify information through official channels. It also called on political leaders to uphold the peace pledge and for supporters to reject violence while awaiting results.

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