ECZ lifts suspension on counting and announcement of election results

THE Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) on Friday lifted the nationwide suspension on the counting and announcement of election results with immediate effect, citing an improved security situation.

ECZ Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis said the decision followed a review of the security situation and consultations with law enforcement agencies.

"Following a review of the security situation and consultations with the relevant law enforcement agencies, I am pleased to inform you and to inform the nation that the security threat to the electoral process has been contained, and that the necessary measures have been put in place to enable the process continue," Zaloumis said at a briefing.

The Commission had earlier suspended the process after reports of violence against poll staff and the theft of marked ballot papers from ballot boxes in some districts.

Zaloumis said polling was successfully conducted at all polling stations across the country, with the last polling station closing at 2 a.m. Friday.

She said the Commission will announce the first set of results at 10 p.m. Friday.

"As the counting and results management process resumes, the commission appeals to political parties, candidates, their supporters, and members of the public to remain peaceful and to allow poll staff to perform their duties without interference or violence or intimidation," Zaloumis said.