Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
SACCORD Executive Director Boniface Cheembe
The Southern African Center for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes (SACCORD) has questioned the rationale behind the hike in the nomination fees for the 2016 elections.
SACCORD Executive Director Boniface Cheembe has wondered why the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has adjusted the nominations fees upwards when elections in Zambia are funded by taxpayers’ money.
He notes that by adjusting these fees, the ECZ is creating an impression that participation in the electoral process is now a preserve of the elite and the rich.
Mr. Cheembe tells Qfm News that this move is therefore inappropriate because the majority of the people in the Country are poor.
He says SACCORD holds the view that if Zambia is to mature and consolidate its Democracy, such alienation and marginalization by the ECZ must be avoided.
The ECZ has increased the presidential nomination fee from K10,000 to K75,000.