ADEG Calls for Peaceful and Credible By-Elections in Pambashe and Petauke

By Francis Maingaila

The Advocates for Democratic Governance Foundation (ADEG) has called for peaceful and credible by-elections in Pambashe and Petauke Constituencies, scheduled for 6 February 2025.

ADEG Executive Director Gideon Musonda told Zambia24 that the forthcoming by-elections are seen as a significant test of the Zambia democratic maturity.

He urged stakeholders from all political affiliations to demonstrate their commitment to peaceful, transparent, and credible elections.

He emphasized the importance of maintaining a peaceful environment to ensure fair and transparent elections, urging all stakeholders, including voters, political parties, and security agencies, to uphold democratic values and prevent electoral malpractices.

In a statement, ADEG Executive Director Gideon Musonda emphasized the importance of a peaceful atmosphere, which he stressed is essential for the conduct of democratic, fair, and credible elections.

“We appeal to all registered voters to exercise their right to vote freely for their preferred Member of Parliament. ADEG’s primary desire is to see an environment that fosters democratic participation without fear or intimidation,” Musonda stated.

Musonda also commended the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) for its proactive engagement with key stakeholders, including traditional leaders, women’s groups, youth organizations, and political parties.

This collaboration, he noted, plays a crucial role in raising awareness about electoral processes and ensuring a broad understanding of voters' rights and responsibilities.

He urged the ECZ to continue enforcing compliance with electoral rules and regulations, acting swiftly to address any violations that may jeopardize the credibility of the electoral process.

Regarding the campaign period, Musonda applauded the generally peaceful nature of the campaigns in Pambashe, despite isolated incidents of provocation.

However, he voiced concerns over reports of violence during the Petauke campaigns, urging immediate measures to prevent such occurrences on polling day.

“ADEG calls on the Zambia Police to strengthen security around polling stations and tallying centers. Heightened security is necessary to protect the electoral process and reassure voters of their safety as they exercise their democratic right,” Musonda stated.

Additionally, Musonda emphasized the responsibility of political leaders and their supporters to uphold democratic values. He urged all parties to exercise restraint, avoid electoral malpractices, and respect divergent views.

“Tolerance and respect for different opinions are the foundations of democracy. We expect all stakeholders to maintain peace before, during, and after the elections,” he added.

Musonda also expressed concerns about the potential for voter manipulation, particularly in Petauke, citing tactics such as the establishment of food distribution points near polling stations to sway vulnerable voters.

ADEG has vowed to deploy field monitors and staff at result centers to observe the by-elections closely, ensuring electoral rules are followed and intervening when necessary to protect the sanctity of the vote.