By-Elections for Nine Wards Taking Place on 11 April

The Electoral Commission of Zambia has announced that by-elections will be held on Thursday 11 April for nine wards across the country.

The by-elections come as a result of resignations and the unfortunate passing of councillors in various districts, including Luangwa, Chama, Munwa, Kaunga, Kaela, Chikenge, Malala, Chisanga, Luumbo, and Nanda Wards.

Nominations for candidates will take place on 11 April, with the campaign period starting the following day and ending on 1 May.

Candidates must submit a completed and attested statutory declaration and nomination papers on the nomination day. They must also pay non-refundable nomination fees between K500 and K1500 and provide certified copies of their Grade 12 certificates or equivalent academic qualifications.

Candidates sponsored by political parties must present adoption certificates bearing the signature and full names of the party president or secretary-general.

Organisations who wish to monitor the elections must apply for accreditation at the Civic Centre in their respective districts. Accreditation for nominations will occur from 8 April to 10 April and for the polls from 29 April to 1 May.

Accreditation for political party and NGO representatives is limited to a maximum of five members per political party and two representatives of NGOs.

During the nomination process, only five senior officials of any participating candidate with Electoral Commission of Zambia accreditation will be allowed inside the Nomination Centre, while supporters must remain outside.

The Electoral Commission stated that failure to comply with these requirements will render nomination papers invalid.

These measures aim to ensure the integrity and transparency of the electoral process.