REJECT VOTING BY TICKING
REJECT VOTING BY TICKING
In Zambia, the traditional way of casting a vote has long involved marking an “X” next to the preferred candidate or choice on the ballot paper.
This act is more than a habit; it is a cornerstone of clarity and trust in the electoral process.
The announcement by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) that one can also mark a tick (✔) instead of an X must be rejected.
The use of the “X” has been ingrained in Zambian elections and minds for decades. It offers an unambiguous way to express voter intent, minimizing confusion both for the voter and those counting the ballots.
Introducing the option to mark a tick at the last minute without thorough electoral education risks misunderstanding, which will lead to spoiled votes especially in provinces Brian Mundubile is projected to win which is good for Hakainde Hichilema.
Moreover, some observers fear that allowing both “X” and “✔” marks will create loopholes that will be exploited, such as fusing illegal ballot papers from Tanzania—that traditionally use both a tick and X marks.
Therefore, the concern is that this dual marking method is designed to facilitate fraudulent ballot stuffing of the much talked about from Tanzania that have both “X” and “✔” marks.
Sudden shifts in voting procedures require extensive voter education so that everyone understands the rules and can confidently participate.