Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
The Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Election Observer Mission says the 20th January presidential election in Zambia marked another important milestone in the consolidation of democracy in the country through upholding constitutional order in managing a delicate political transition.
Giving a preliminary statement on the elections in Lusaka today, Delegation leader Simbi Mubako says the conduct of the election will go a long way in contributing to sustainable social and economic development in the country.
Dr. Mubako notes that for the second time in the history of multi party democracy, the people of Zambia have demonstrated maturity in managing peaceful transition.
He adds that the mission observed that the election campaign was generally peaceful despite isolated incidences of violence.
Dr. Mubako however noted that the absence of a regulatory framework for campaign finance and party funding in Zambia is a void that can contribute to negative influence of money in electoral politics.
He also points out that the transmission of results by the ECZ while others were still voting may have had a psychological effect on the voter.
Dr. Mubako has further urged the government to avail funds to the Electoral Commission of Zambia to conduct continuous voter registration to ensure that all citizens at the voting age are enfranchised.
He has also urged ECZ to examine the possible causes of low voter turnout and explore remedial measures to increase participation in future elections.