UPND disappointed with District Commissioners’ participation in PF campaigns

UPND Campaign Manager Dipak Patel says it is disappointing that the civil service, which is supposed to be non-partisan and a professional cornerstone of any functioning democracy is being misused for political advantage to try and influence the outcome of the 20^th January 2015 election.

Commenting on the Electoral Commission of Zambia’s revelation that some District Commissioners are imposing lists of recruits for polling staff during the upcoming presidential by-election, Mr Patel has called on Acting President Guy Scott and Secretary to the Cabinet Roland Msiska to discipline the offending District Commissioners and ensure they cease using their positions to secure partisan advantage.

Mr Patel states that the choice on 20^th January, 2015 is with the people of Zambia and they must be allowed a free choice in the matter.

He says the Trainings underway for the polling officials should now be used as an opportunity to ensure that those nominated will fulfill their role in an independent manner.

He adds that now that this matter has been brought to public attention, it will be critical to ensure election observers and civil society are especially vigilant in this respect.