ECZ: Revokes Binwell Mpundu's Accreditation to National Results Centre

• The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has immediately revoked Binwell Mpundu’s accreditation to the National Results Centre.
• Binwell Mpundu, a current Nkana Member of Parliament, has also been banned by the ECZ from the 2026 elections.
• ECZ Chief Electoral Officer Brown Kasaro confirmed the decision, which followed the circulation of a social media video.
• The video showed Mpundu making 'ready to kill' remarks, prompting the ECZ to cite public safety concerns for its action.

The ECZ's swift response was directly triggered by the widespread circulation of a video across social media platforms.

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has taken immediate and stringent measures against Binwell Mpundu, a current Member of Parliament for Nkana, by revoking his accreditation to the National Results Centre. This decision, announced by ECZ Chief Electoral Officer Brown Kasaro, effectively bars Mpundu from accessing the critical hub where election outcomes are compiled and verified.

Beyond the immediate revocation of access, the ECZ has also issued a broader ban, prohibiting Mpundu from participating in the 2026 elections. This comprehensive action underscores the commission's commitment to maintaining order and integrity within the electoral process, particularly concerning individuals whose conduct is deemed to undermine public safety or the peaceful conduct of elections.

The ECZ's swift response was directly triggered by the widespread circulation of a video across social media platforms. In the footage, Binwell Mpundu is seen making remarks that included the phrase 'ready to kill,' which the commission deemed highly inflammatory and a direct threat to public safety.

This incident highlights the increasing scrutiny electoral bodies place on the public statements of political figures, especially in the digital age where content can rapidly disseminate and potentially incite unrest. The ECZ's justification for its decision explicitly cited concerns for public safety, indicating a low tolerance for rhetoric perceived as violent or disruptive to the democratic process.

The revocation of accreditation to the National Results Centre is a significant punitive measure, as access to this facility is crucial for political parties and their representatives to observe the final stages of the electoral count and ensure transparency. By denying a legislator this access, the ECZ sends a clear message about the standards of conduct expected from all stakeholders involved in the electoral cycle.

Such actions are vital for preserving the credibility of Zambia's electoral system and reinforcing public trust in the ECZ's ability to manage elections fairly and securely. The commission's firm stance against remarks that could be interpreted as incitement to violence underscores its role not only as an administrator of elections but also as a guardian of the peaceful democratic environment necessary for free and fair polls.

Source: Original reporting via The Zambian Observer