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Mpika Member of Parliament, Francis Kapyanga, says the withdrawal of various candidates from electoral races signify a growing lack of confidence in the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) to conduct fair elections.
Candidates from Citizens First in Kayo ward of Mwansabombwe and the New Congress Party in Kapamba ward in Mpika districts, as well as the leadership movement in Shiwangandu, have reportedly withdrawn from the electoral races in their respective wards.
Kapyanga said this in a statement issued in Lusaka on Wednesday.
Kapyanga stated that the recent tribunal findings on the Kapamba ward by-election, which highlighted procedural irregularities by the returning officer, raised serious concerns about the impartiality of the Commission.
He said the electoral body, which played a pivotal role in upholding democracy in the country, should be above reproach and instil confidence in all political players and citizens.
“It is my firm belief that a transparent and trustworthy electoral process is fundamental to the health of our democracy,” the lawmaker stated.
Kapyanga said the withdrawals and controversies surrounding recent and current by-elections underscored the need for a reevaluation of the structure and practices of the ECZ.
He further advocated for the reconstitution of the Commission to restore faith in the electoral process and ensure the integrity of the country’s democratic principles.
“I implore the current ECZ team to act independently and impartially, thereby safeguarding the democratic values that our nation holds dear,” Kapyanga advised.
He stated that the people of Zambia deserved an electoral commission that operates with transparency, accountability, fairness and void of puppetry.
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