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The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has warned that it will not hesitate to suspend campaigns in Muchinda Ward of Serenje District in Central Province where violence was reported on Saturday following the crush between the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) and Socialist Party.
The Commission has also warned all participating political parties that it will be compelled to invoke the provisions of the Electoral Process Act which includes disqualification against erring political parties in the remaining days should these acts of violence continue.
ECZ Corporate Affairs Manager, Patricia Luhanga, in a statement issued in Lusaka on Sunday said from the time the campaigns started, the Commission has observed that the atmosphere has been peaceful throughout the three districts where by-elections are being held.
Luhanga said it is therefore, regrettable and worrying to start recording violence with just a few days before the poll day.
She has reminded all participating political parties in the by-elections that the Electoral Code of Conduct applies to this period of campaigns and must be adhered to without exception.
“It is therefore, regrettable and worrying to start recording violence with just a few days before the poll day. the Commission would like to remind all participating political parties in the by-elections that the Electoral Code of Conduct applies to this period of campaigns and must be adhered to without exception,” Luhanga said.
She further said the Commission is aware that all the cases of violence have been reported to the Zambia Police Service and has urged the Police to beef up security in Muchinda Ward to restore law and order.
“The Commission further reminds all political parties’ leadership to prevail over their supporters to be peaceful in the conduct of campaigns, be tolerant and promote co-existence as these are some of the key ingredients of a maturing democracy,” Ms. Luhanga said.
The UPND cadres and Socialist party members on Saturday in Muchinda Ward of Serenje District crushed during their campaigns which resulted in the injury of several of them and subsequent arrest of the Socialist Party President Fred M’membe.
The ECZ has prescribed April 20, 2023 as the date for by-election in Muchinda Ward, Serenje District.
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