PF Cadres have been imposed as Polling Staff – UPND

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has reportedly confirmed some District Commissioners have imposed lists of recruits for polling staff during the upcoming presidential by-election. It has been alleged that they have nominated PF cadres for these positions in certain districts.

It is disappointing to hear that the civil service, which should be a non-partisan and professional cornerstone of any functioning democracy, is being misused for political advantage and to try and influence the outcome of the 20 January 2015 election.

We call on Acting President Guy Scott and Secretary to the Cabinet Roland Msiska to discipline the offending District Commissioners and ensure they cease using their positions to secure partisan advantage. The choice on 20 January 2015 is with the people of Zambia and they must be allowed a free choice in the matter.

Trainings underway for the polling officials should now be used as an opportunity to ensure that those nominated will fulfil their role in an independent manner. Anyone the ECZ has reservations about should be removed or replaced immediately.

Now this matter has been brought to public attention it will be critical to ensure election observers and civil society are especially vigilant in this respect.

Dipak Patel

UPND Campaign Manager