Elections at Risk

Published from Blogger Prime Android AppTransparency group warns flawed procurement could undermine 2026 polls

Lusaka, Zambia24 - (August 2025) – Transparency International Zambia (TI-Z) has called for the immediate suspension of the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ)’s procurement process for biometric voter registration (BVR) equipment, citing serious irregularities that it warns could undermine the credibility of the 2026 general elections.

TI-Z Executive Director Maurice Nyambe said the organization has uncovered troubling inconsistencies in the ongoing tender process, including the advancement of two companies—Miru Systems and Starlab—under questionable circumstances. 

He said one of the bidders was initially disqualified for failing to submit audited financial statements but later had its appeal upheld by the Zambia Public Procurement Authority (ZPPA), while stronger contenders were excluded without clear justification.

“Our investigation has revealed signs of internal interference and manipulation aimed at influencing the outcome of the procurement process,” Nyambe said in a statement.

He added that multiple whistleblowers had come forward with evidence suggesting that ECZ officials may have played a role in skewing the tender results. 

TI-Z fears these actions could compromise the integrity of voter registration data and diminish public trust in the electoral process.

TI-Z is demanding the immediate suspension of the current due diligence process, a full independent review, public disclosure of all shortlisted bidders and evaluation criteria, and a formal investigation by the Anti-Corruption Commission and other relevant agencies.

Nyambe also referred to earlier remarks by Secretary to Cabinet Patrick Kangwa, who in November 2024 urged public servants to confront procurement abuse and avoid shielding wrongdoers. 

TI-Z said ignoring these irregularities would contradict the government’s stated commitment to fighting corruption, as outlined in the National Policy on Anti-Corruption.

TI-Z, whose mandate includes promoting transparency and accountability in public institutions, stated that it will continue to monitor the situation and advocate for the protection of democratic processes.

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