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ECZ launches sensitisation campaign, calls for democratic participation

THE Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has officially launched the "Count Me In" Campaign, a nationwide voter sensitization initiative aimed at encouraging citizen participation in the 2026 General Elections.

The commission has since called on politicians and other stakeholders to help educate citizens on the importance of participating in an election in a democratic manner, using the campaign.

Speaking during the launch, ECZ Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis said there is need to encourage peaceful participation and dissermination of accurate information to the citizens.

Zaloumis also said stressed the need for every eligible Zambian to actively participate in the electoral process to ensure that their voices are heard.

" The media and other stakeholders are encouraged to help diserminate verified election information to the public.

" Voter participation remains a cornerstone of democracy and all eligible voters need to prepare for the forthcoming elections by staying informed and exercising their constitutional right to vote," she said.

The Commissioner further said that the Commission reaffirms its commitment to conducting free, fair, transparent and credible elections.

She said through the nationwide campaign, ECZ hopes to foster a culture that will ensure that every voter understands that their vote counts and that every citizen has a role to play in the country's democratic development.

"Voter sensitization activities will be rolled out across all 1,858 wards, 116 districts and 10 provinces of Zambia to ensure that electoral information reaches citizens in every corner of the country," the Commissioner added.

Zaloumis of alao the "Count Me In" Campaign seeks to promote voter awareness, civic responsibility and inclusive participation among all segments of society, particularly women, youths, persons with disabilities, and first-time voters.

She added that voter education and publicity play a key role in promoting informed participation, peaceful elections and public confidence in democratic institutions.

By Sanfrossa Mberi

Kalem June 1, 2026

UPND national youth chairman Gilbert Liswaniso has formally introduced the ruling party’s Munali parliamentary candidate, Thomas Sipalo, popularly known as Diffikoti, to the electorate.

The youth leader has also concurrently launched campaigns for President Hakainde Hichilema in Munali constituency.

“Our ultimate goal is to mobilise the vote for President Hakainde Hichilema for continued peace, unity, and development,” he said while addressing Munali residents yesterday.

Mr Liswaniso also recognised the strength of the party and the foot soldiers who work tirelessly in communities to mobilise support for President Hichilema ahead of the August 13 general election.

“Your commitment, discipline, and sacrifice are what keep this party alive and strong,” he said.

“As we stand here today, we recognise that real leadership begins on the ground. It begins with ordinary men and women who believe that Munali can be better, stronger, and more united. You are not just supporters; you are the engine of the party.”

Mr Liswaniso urged UPND supporters to remain focused, peaceful, and organised.

“Let us continue to engage our communities with respect, humility, and truth. Politics must never divide us as neighbours or families,” he said.

Mr Liswaniso said the mission is to uplift people’s lives, create opportunities for the youth, support mothers and fathers, and build a future that every Zambian citizen can be proud of.

Sources from within the "Kingdom" say that Paramount Chief Mpezeni died in the University Teaching Hospital around 04:00 hours this morning...

MILES SAMPA WITHDRAWS FROM LIMA PARLIAMENTARY RACE, SHIFTS FOCUS TO PF MOBILIZATION

Immediate past Matero Member of Parliament Miles Bwalya Sampa has withdrawn from the forthcoming Lima Constituency parliamentary election following consultations with key stakeholders.

Mr. Sampa said the decision was formally made yesterday, following a High Court ruling delivered several weeks earlier that effectively barred the Patriotic Front (PF) from fielding candidates for presidential, parliamentary and local government positions.

He explained that the judgment, delivered by Judges C.C. Zulu and Mwila Kombe shortly before the close of nominations, significantly affected the former ruling party’s participation in the electoral process.

Mr. Sampa said the PF, under his leadership, would now redirect its efforts towards influencing the outcome of the presidential election, which he described as being in the national interest.

“After wider consultations with key stakeholders, yesterday, we formally withdrew our participation in the Lima constituency parliamentary elections,” Mr. Sampa said.

He added that the party would work collectively to remain relevant in shaping the country’s political direction despite its inability to field candidates in the affected elections.

The former lawmaker said the PF leadership would soon meet to determine its strategy ahead of the August 13 general election.

According to Mr. Sampa, the party’s Central Committee is scheduled to convene this weekend to deliberate on and adopt resolutions that will guide its next course of action regarding election campaigns.

Meanwhile, Mr. Sampa assured residents of Lima and Matero constituencies that he would continue engaging with local communities through ongoing social and development initiatives.

He said programmes such as Ubuntu and Kakudya Sikachepa would continue regardless of the party’s participation in the parliamentary race, emphasizing that his commitment to the people was not driven by electoral considerations.

“It was never about votes, but about the everlasting love for all the people in my birthplace area,” he said.

Mr. Sampa reiterated that he would remain actively involved in community activities and support programmes aimed at improving the welfare of residents.

With Mr. Sampa’s withdrawal, the contest for the Lima Constituency parliamentary seat is now effectively a two-horse race between Kelvin Kaunda, popularly known as Bruce Lee Tapompele of the Tonse/Pamodzi Alliance, and Lee Mukupa of the ruling UPND, ahead of the August 13 general election.