ECZ Warns Zambia Election Candidates Against Premature Victory Declarations

• The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has warned candidates against declaring themselves winners before official results are announced.
• Publicly declaring victory before the official declaration is an offence under Zambian electoral law.
• Lawyers advising election candidates must advise their clients to refrain from making premature statements.

According to ECZ Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis, publicly declaring victory before the official declaration is an offence.

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has issued a warning to candidates participating in the recent polls, cautioning them against declaring themselves winners before official results are announced. This directive comes after the ECZ suspended counting and announcement due to security concerns on Thursday. According to ECZ Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis, publicly declaring victory before the official declaration is an offence. The warning has significant implications for lawyers advising election candidates, who must now advise their clients to refrain from making premature statements.

Zambian electoral law prohibits candidates from publicly declaring victory before the official announcement of results. This provision is aimed at preventing potential disruptions and maintaining order during the election process. Specifically, Section 89 (1) (o) of the Electoral Process (Amendment) Act No. 32 of 2021 makes it an offence for any person without lawful authority to announce and declare the results of an election. The ECZ's warning serves as a reminder to candidates that they must adhere to this legal requirement, which has been in place for several elections. Failure to comply may result in consequences under Zambian electoral law.

The ECZ's warning highlights the importance of adhering to established procedures during election periods. By cautioning candidates against premature declarations, the Commission aims to maintain public order and ensure a smooth transition of power. Lawyers advising Zambian election candidates must now carefully consider the implications of this directive, as publicly declaring victory before official results may be considered an offence. This development underscores the need for careful planning and strategic communication during election campaigns.

Lawyers advising Zambian election candidates should note that publicly declaring victory before official results are announced may be considered an offence, and advise their clients to refrain from making such statements.

Source: Original reporting via The Electoral Commission of Zambia