UPND parliamentary losses may have bearing on presidential outcome – Mwale

Governance activist and Operation Young Vote Acting […]

Governance activist and Operation Young Vote Acting Director Isaac Mwale says the loss of parliamentary seats by several UPND candidates could have a bearing on the presidential outcome, although it is too early to determine what the results mean for the presidential race.

 Speaking in an exclusive interview with Zambian Business Times-ZBT Mwale said the parliamentary results were significant because, in Zambia, parliamentary voting has often been closely linked to support for the presidential candidate. “It is difficult to ultimately say that, but definitely it has a bearing,” Mwale said.

He said the outcome could indicate a shift in the way voters assess parliamentary candidates, with citizens potentially becoming more willing to vote for candidates based on their individual capabilities rather than simply supporting those associated with the presidential candidate.

Mwale said such a trend could contribute to a stronger Parliament by encouraging voters to focus more on the calibre of individual candidates. He noted that presidential popularity has historically played a major role in determining the composition of Parliament, contributing to situations where the ruling party holds a large majority.

 However, he said the emerging voting pattern could signal greater independence among voters and potentially improve the quality of representation in Parliament.

Mwale said it was therefore important to allow the electoral process to conclude before drawing firm conclusions about what the parliamentary results mean for the presidential election.

 He also urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to remain calm and allow the Electoral Commission of Zambia to complete the counting, transmission and announcement of results through the established electoral process.

 By Samuel Mutale