UPND INTENDING TO WITHDRAW CANDIDATE FROM MUNWA BY-ELECTION IN CHIENGE
UPND INTENDING TO WITHDRAW CANDIDATE FROM MUNWA BY-ELECTION IN CHIENGE
….a move aimed at triggering fresh nominations
CHIENGE… Tuesday, April 23, 2024
Information has immerged that UPND intends to withdraw its Munwa ward by-election candidate Famous Chelu allegedly citing forged grade twelve certificate used during the nomination.
The withdraw is aimed at triggering fresh nominations in less than two weeks after close of nominations for the by-elections in the ward.
And last week, residents of Munwa in Chiengi District, Luapula Province, appealed to Government to suspend the use of GRZ vehicles currently being used for campaigns in Munwa Ward by-election in Chienge district slated for May 2, 2024.
One of the residents, John Chishimba, said the residents are fully aware that the District Commissioner for Chiengi has removed the GRZ number plate on the official vehicle which is angering onlookers.
He said the Electoral Code of Conduct in Zambia prohibits the use of government or public resources, including vehicles, for campaign purposes.
Mr. Chishimba said this is to ensure a level playing field for all candidates and political parties during elections.
He said the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) enforces these rules and can penalize individuals or parties that violate them.
Mr. Chishimba added that the ban is part of broader efforts to prevent the incumbent government from having an undue advantage and to minimize the misuse of state resources in political campaigns.
Another Resident Marie Sichone said residents might effect a citizens arrest on people driving GRZ vehicles without number plates because it is unlawful.
Mr. Sichone said Zambia has laws that provide for restrictions to prevent the misuse of state resources during the electoral process to ensure fairness and transparency.
He said regarding driving a vehicle without a number plate, it is illegal in Zambia as the Road Traffic Act No. 11 of 2002 outlines various traffic offenses and their corresponding fines.