BREAKING: ECZ Suspends Counting and Announcement of Election Results for 24hrs
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The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has made the significant decision to suspend both the counting process and the announcement of results for the upcoming 2026 general election across the entire country. This critical move was formalized during a meeting held this morning, where the commission resolved that an immediate halt is necessary due to escalating security concerns. The suspension will remain in effect for at least twenty-four hours while authorities assess the current situation and determine if further action or adjustments are required before resuming operations.
The primary driver behind this abrupt pause is the alarming rise in violence reported during election activities, which has specifically targeted poll staff working in various districts. In several instances, these attacks have gone beyond physical intimidation to include serious criminal acts such as the theft of marked ballot papers and ballot boxes themselves. The commission expressed deep concern regarding these developments, noting that they pose a direct threat to the integrity of the electoral process and the safety of those involved in administering the vote.
To address this dire security landscape, the ECZ invoked Section 67 Subsection 3 of the Electoral Process Act Number 35 of 2016 as the legal basis for their action. By citing continued threats of violence and an unstable environment, the commission has prioritized safety over speed in ensuring a free and fair election. This decision reflects a commitment to preventing further disruption caused by armed groups or individuals attempting to interfere with the democratic process through intimidation and theft of essential voting materials.
Following the announcement, stakeholders were informed that the commission will conduct a thorough review of this suspension within the next twenty-four hours. The Electoral Commission has pledged to keep all interested parties updated as new information emerges regarding the security situation on the ground. This temporary pause serves as an urgent measure to de-escalate tensions and protect election workers, ensuring that when counting resumes, it can proceed without further interference or violence compromising the final results.
Read the full video transcript
in terms of the
uh
development of the conduct of the
general the 2026 general election.
This morning, the Electoral Commission
of Zambia
had a meeting
at which it made a resolution
to suspend the counting and announcement
of results
of the election.
To this effect, I will read the
statement
arising from that decision.
The Electoral Commission of Zambia has
noted with concern
reports of violence during the counting
and announcement of results in some
districts.
The violence is targeted at poll staff
and in some instances has resulted in
the theft of marked ballot papers and
ballot boxes.
In view of the security situation
and continued threats of violence, the
Commission has with immediate
suspended the counting and announcement
of results
throughout the country
in accordance with section 67 subsection
3
of the Electoral Process Act number 35
of 2016.
The Commission will review the
suspension within 24 hours.
I thank you.
>> Thank you, Chief Electoral Officer. In
view of the developments, we will be
circulating the statement that has been
signed by the Commission for all of your
stakeholders to probably just have a
look at what the CEO has read. We will
keep you updated on the developments as
they unfold. With that said, thank you
very much and good day.
>> Mhm.