- Defend credibility of 2026 general elections
FANNY KALONDA,
MARY LEMBA,
PRISCILLA MWILA
Lusaka
STAKEHOLDERS have defended Zambia’s democratic processes and the credibility of the 2026 general elections, arguing that concerns raised in the European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) final report should be examined objectively and within the context of the country’s democratic institutions and legal framework.
They have questioned aspects of the report, particularly its assessment of shrinking democratic space, saying election observation findings should provide an opportunity for constructive engagement and institutional improvements rather than create the impression that democratic governance has broken down.
Governance and Development Advocates Zambia (GODAZA) executive director Elias Mulenga said concerns surrounding civic freedoms and the electoral environment should not overshadow the democratic processes and institutions operating in the country.
Mr Mulenga said election observation reports should primarily provide recommendations that help strengthen democratic governance and improve electoral processes.
He said issues highlighted by the EU mission deserve attention but should be examined objectively and within the context of Zambia’s existing democratic framework.
Mr Mulenga said constructive engagement between stakeholders and relevant institutions is important in addressing electoral concerns and strengthening public confidence.
Similarly, governance expert Mutale Chilufya said some of the observations contained in the report lack sufficient background information and verifiable evidence to substantiate claims about shrinking democratic space.
Mr Chilufya said recommendations in the report should be assessed individually, taking into account existing measures aimed at promoting democratic governance and protecting fundamental freedoms.
He said the existence of concerns in an election observation report does not automatically mean democratic principles are no longer being respected.
Mr Chilufya added that sustained engagement on electoral reforms, freedom of expression and institutional accountability remains essential in strengthening public confidence in the country’s democratic system.
Meanwhile, human rights advocate Bruce Chomba said protecting democratic space requires a balanced assessment of the environment in which citizens, civil society organisations and the media exercise their fundamental rights. https://enews.daily-mail.co.zm/welcome/home
