Zambia still has chance of conducting peaceful polls – SACCORD

SACCORD Executive Director Boniface Cheembe

The Southern African Center for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes (SACCORD) has observed that it is possible for Zambia to hold peaceful elections, but all stakeholders have to play their role fairly and objectively.

SACCORD Executive Director Boniface Cheembe says it is encouraging to note the appeal made by the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) Chairperson, Justice Esau Chulu, on the need for all political players to be allowed to campaign freely without intimidation.

Mr. Cheembe notes that some political stakeholders have complained over intimidation and lack of a free space to conduct their campaigns.

He says it is paramount that the people of Zambia, who during this campaign season are masters, are given an opportunity to listen to messages, ideas and manifestos that their various political leaders are putting forward.

He states that the Public Order Act (POA) must allow for peace and facilitate for the enjoyment of basic freedoms of assembly, association and expression.

Mr. Cheembe says the ECZ Chairperson must be commended for calling on the Police to apply the Public Order Act fairly and ensure that all perpetrators of political violence irrespective of political affiliation are prevented from disturbing the peace.