ECZ To Ban Campaigns

THE Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has warned that it will be forced to end the election campaign period earlier than the scheduled date of January 19 if incidents of violence and intolerance among political parties participating in the forthcoming presidential election persist.
ECZ public relations manager Crispin Akufuna said in a statement issued yesterday that the commission will be compelled to cancel the campaigns before January 19 if the unfolding incidents of violence and intolerance in various parts of the country continue.
“As we have said before, elections are the only way of choosing leaders to political office and should not be synonymous with violence.  The commission wishes to remind all participating political parties that they have a duty to ensure that their candidates, cadres and supporters abide by the electoral regulations including the code of conduct,” Mr Akufuna said.
He said it is the responsibility of political parties taking part in the presidential election to retrain their members and cadres from provoking their opponents and inciting violence.
“Leaders of all political parties have an even greater responsibility to lead by example by promoting tolerance and peace and setting the tone for a level playing field for free and fair election,” Mr Akufuna said.
He said ECZ will soon convene a meeting of all political parties, the church and other stakeholders to chart a way forward on the “ugly” scourge of violence.
Mr Akufuna urged the police to ensure perpetrators of violence and any person caught abrogating the Electoral Code of Conduct are dealt with firmly without fear or fear and irrespective of the political party they belong to.
And Mr Akufuna said the ECZ has also condemned some traditional leaders who have endorsed some presidential candidates in the forthcoming election.
He said endorsements by chiefs may exert undue influence on their subjects.
Mr Akufuna advised traditional leaders to desist from making partisan statements when invited to political functions.
“The endorsements of some candidates by traditional leaders is an abrogation of Section 129 of the Constitution, which states that a person shall not while remaining a chief join or participate in partisan politics,” Mr Akufuna said.