ECZ Unveils 2026 Election Monitoring Platform

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has approved and launched an early warning system aimed at strengthening conflict prevention ahead of the 2026 General Election.

ECZ Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis said the initiative marked a shift from reactive dispute management to a more proactive approach to preventing conflict.

Speaking at the launch in Lusaka today, Ms Zaloumis said the early warning system would support adherence to the Electoral Code of Conduct and help prevent disputes before they arise during the electoral process. She added that it would also assist in the professional management of ongoing disputes and help resolve them in a timely and amicable manner.

Ms Zaloumis said citizens would be able to report threats, incidents and other concerns directly through a web-based platform, or through the authenticated USSD code *214# for those without internet access.

She further announced that the Commission had approved revised accreditation guidelines and an enhanced online accreditation system for the 2026 General Election.

Ms Zaloumis said the upgraded platform would streamline accreditation for election observers and monitors, improving transparency and efficiency while reducing processing times.

The measures form part of the Commission's wider preparations to ensure a credible, peaceful and well-managed election later this year.