CSEIFZ CALLS FOR FREE, FAIR AND CREDIBLE 2026 GENERAL ELECTIONS; URGES ECZ TO CLEARLY COMMUNICATE VOTING USING THE STANDARD ❌ CROSS, AND POLITICAL PARTIES TO DEPLOY STRONG AND ALERT POLLING AGENTS AND ELECTION MONITORS TO SAFEGUARD THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE
PRESS STATEMENT ON THE 2026 GENERAL ELECTIONS
CSEIFZ CALLS FOR FREE, FAIR AND CREDIBLE 2026 GENERAL ELECTIONS; URGES ECZ TO CLEARLY COMMUNICATE VOTING USING THE STANDARD ❌ CROSS, AND POLITICAL PARTIES TO DEPLOY STRONG AND ALERT POLLING AGENTS AND ELECTION MONITORS TO SAFEGUARD THE WILL OF THE PEOPLE
Mon. August 10, 2026
The Civil Society Elections Integrity Forum Zambia (CSEIFZ) calls for _free, fair and credible 2026 General Elections_.
Having witnessed the voting system and the level of transparency demonstrated in Malawi, there are important lessons that Zambia must draw from, especially the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ). We commend the ECZ for the professionalism and transparency exhibited so far, and we encourage the Commission to remain strong and bold in making independent decisions in line with the law.
*We further urge the ECZ to clearly and widely communicate to all voters and stakeholders that voting shall be done using the standard ❌ CROSS as provided for in our Electoral Law.* Clarity on this matter will prevent confusion, reduce rejected ballots, and protect the integrity of the vote.
Elections are a true reflection of the people’s power. It is the people who decide who will run the affairs of their ward, constituency, district, city and the Presidency. Therefore, protecting the integrity of every single vote is non-negotiable.
In this regard, CSEIFZ strongly appeals to all political parties and independent candidates participating in the 2026 General Elections to deploy _strong and alert_ polling agents and election monitors. Their role is critical in ensuring that counting is accurate and free from any suspicious issues. They play an important role in protecting the will of the people.
While civil society organizations and other stakeholders will also be present to monitor the voting and counting, the Forum emphasizes that political parties and independent candidates must have their own agents present as the first line of defence in protecting the ballot. Polling agents and election monitors are entrusted with the responsibility of ensuring that voting and counting procedures are conducted transparently, fairly, and in accordance with the law. Their vigilance is central to the credibility of the electoral process.
We caution that deploying weak or unprepared personnel exposes contestants to unnecessary disputes and challenges, often arising from misinterpretations of electoral procedures. Strong and alert agents who understand the process are better able to identify irregularities, respond appropriately, and channel concerns through legitimate legal and electoral mechanisms. This not only protects the votes cast but also contributes to credible and transparent electoral outcomes.
As CSEIFZ, we urge all contestants to begin preparations well in advance of the elections rather than waiting until the final stages. Early deployment planning will ensure that agents and monitors are ready to handle the complexities of the electoral process. Such foresight will also reassure citizens that their votes are being safeguarded by competent and vigilant representatives.
We further argue that _all candidates must prioritize the peace and unity of this country, no matter the outcome of the election results. At the end of the day, there can only be one winner._ Zambia is bigger than any individual or political party, and it is our collective duty to protect its stability before, during, and after the elections.
We also encourage all registered voters to remain vigilant and to report any electoral malpractices on voting day to law enforcement agencies. However, we strongly caution citizens: _please do not take the law into your own hands._ Uphold peace and let the law take its course.
As Civil Society Elections Integrity Forum Zambia, we remind all stakeholders political parties, independent candidates, civil society organizations, and the electorate that safeguarding democracy is a shared responsibility. Ensuring that elections are monitored professionally and that every legitimate vote is protected is essential to upholding democratic principles and preserving the integrity of Zambia’s electoral system.
_signed by the Leadership of CSEIFZ:_
_Solomon Ngoma_
Chairperson – Civil Society Elections Integrity Forum Zambia and Executive Director-AIPAC
Ms Nakiwe Simpungwe Vice Chairperson Civil Society Elections Integrity Forum & Executive Director HANZ
Mr Samuel Banda CSEIFZ Spokesperson & ANDD Executive Director