The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has called on political parties to uphold the provisions of the electoral code of conduct ahead of nominations for the Chinama by-election which is slated for 12th July 2024 in Kanchibiya District.

Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis says elections are an enormous task that requires consented efforts from stakeholders such as political parties.

In a speech read for her by ECZ Audit Manager Naomi Hara during the opening of the District political party liaison committee meeting held at Mikuka Secondary School in Kanchibiya District yesterday, The Chairperson urged political parties to conduct their activities in line with the provisions of the electoral code.

“The political party liaison committee is a forum for consultation on electoral matters and cooperation between the Commission and registered political parties, it also aims at promoting harmony, trust and confidence among stakeholders mainly political parties,” Ms Zaloumis said.

Ms Zaloumis said that the Commission would like the nominations on June 11, 2024 to be conducted in an orderly and peaceful manner.

And Kanchibiya District Electoral Officer Joseph Zulu said ECZ would like to see to it that the elections are free and fair, and without violent acts.

Mr Zulu reminded political parties of their responsibility to ensure violence-free elections and to sensitize their members accordingly.

“It is not just ECZ to uphold the electoral process, you are also the major stakeholders, it’s about the political parties, the voters and ourselves,” Mr Zulu said.

Meanwhile, United Prosperous and Peaceful Zambia (UPPZ) District Chairperson Allan Katiba said the party would like the by-elections to be peaceful.