🇿🇲 BRIEFING | ECZ Suspends NRPUP Campaigns in Kaputa After Fatal Political Violence
The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has indefinitely suspended all campaign activities for the National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity (NRPUP) in Kaputa Constituency, citing acts of political violence that resulted in the death of a member of another political party.
In a statement issued on Friday, Chief Electoral Officer Brown Kasaro said the suspension takes effect immediately and will remain in force pending a full review by the Commission. “The decisive action follows the party’s involvement in acts of violence in the area, resulting in the death of a member of another political party,” Kasaro said.
The Commission also disclosed that it is monitoring a separate fatal incident in Chivuna Village, Magoye East Constituency, where Stanley Sakala, a driver for an independent parliamentary candidate, was killed earlier this week.
ECZ said it is awaiting a conclusive report from the Zambia Police Service before determining whether further electoral action is warranted.
The decision marks one of the strongest interventions by the electoral body since campaigns officially began, signalling a firmer enforcement of the Electoral Code of Conduct.
Earlier this week, President Hakainde Hichilema directed security agencies to act decisively against political violence, stating that “those who carry weapons to a political gathering have lost the argument” and warning that no political party would shield perpetrators from the law.
With just weeks remaining before the 13 August General Election, the Commission has reminded all political parties, candidates and supporters that peaceful campaigning remains a legal obligation.
“The Commission reiterates that it will not hesitate to enforce its statutory powers under the Electoral Process (Amendment) Act No. 12 of 2026. Any failure to adhere to the law will result in serious consequences,” the ECZ said.
© The People’s Brief | Goran Handya
ECZ Suspends NRPUP Campaigns in Kaputa After Fatal Political Violence
