CSEIFZ Defends ECZ Funding

Urges transparency and inclusivity in electoral process

By Francis Maingaila ♥️

Lusaka, Zambia 24 April 8, 2026 — The Civil Society Elections Integrity Forum Zambia (CSEIFZ) has strongly defended funding to the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), warning that calls to suspend support could undermine the country’s democratic institutions.

CSEIFZ Chairperson Mr. Solomon Ngoma told Zambia24 that the calls are “unfortunate and unpatriotic,” cautioning that any move to impose sanctions on ECZ risks damaging Zambia’s international reputation and weakening public confidence in the electoral system.

The organisation urged ECZ to remain committed to its mandate of delivering free, fair, and credible elections, while avoiding mistakes that have eroded public trust in electoral bodies elsewhere. CSEIFZ stressed the importance of transparency and inclusivity, noting that all eligible presidential candidates must be allowed to participate in the electoral process.

CSEIFZ also called on President to urgently appoint two new Electoral Commissioners following the retirement of Mr. Ali Simwinga. The group said a fully constituted commission is critical as the country prepares for general elections in the coming months.

On the issue of constituency delimitation, the forum urged ECZ to ensure that boundary adjustments reflect population growth, economic realities, and geographical considerations. It warned against politically motivated decisions, emphasizing that not all districts necessarily require new constituencies.

“The delimitation exercise must reflect the will of the people as expressed during the constitutional reform consultations,” the statement read, adding that traditional leaders and other stakeholders had made submissions based on genuine needs.

CSEIFZ further appealed to political actors to respect democratic principles, stating that leaders who have lost public support should accept the electorate’s decision rather than force their way onto the ballot.

The organisation also called on citizens, particularly young people, to maintain peace during the electoral period and resist being used as agents of violence or disruption.

At the same time, voters were urged to critically assess candidates at all levels, including Members of Parliament, and hold accountable those who have failed to deliver despite increased allocations under the Constituency Development Fund.

CSEIFZ noted that Zambia is currently experiencing relative stability and economic growth, stressing that credible elections and responsible leadership are essential to sustaining these gains.