Candidates Cleared, Fraud Detected


ECZ confirms over 10,000 qualifications as verification exercise ends, flags forged documents and issues replacement certificates

By Francis Maingaila ♥️

Lusaka, Zambia24  --- (26-05-2026) ---The Examinations Council of Zambia (ECZ) has completed the confirmation of qualifications for aspiring candidates ahead of the 2026 General Election, clearing more than 10,000 applicants while detecting cases of document forgery during the verification process.

Speaking on Tuesday, 26 May 2026, ECZ Executive Director Dr Michael M. Chilala announced that the exercise, conducted under the 2026 Election Confirmation Online System, successfully concluded on 22 May 2026 after being extended due to high demand.

The said a total of 10,731 confirmation letters were issued during the exercise. Of these, 10,020 were processed through the online system, while 711 were handled through physical submissions at ECZ service centres across the country.

Dr Chilala said the introduction of the online platform significantly improved efficiency and accessibility, allowing aspiring candidates to confirm their qualifications remotely, while service centres remained operational, including on weekends, to assist those requiring in-person support.

He added that all verified records have been shared with the to support the electoral nomination process ahead of the polls.

However, ECZ raised concern after detecting 10 forged documents during the verification exercise. Dr Chilala said the matter had been reported to law enforcement authorities for further action, warning against the continued submission of falsified academic records.

The Council also revealed that 334 replacement certificates were issued to candidates who reportedly misplaced their original documents between the 2021 and 2026 election periods, urging political aspirants to safeguard official academic credentials as security documents.

Dr Chilala described the exercise as largely successful, commending government and electoral stakeholders for their support, as well as ECZ staff for ensuring smooth implementation of the process.

He reaffirmed that ECZ conducted the exercise with integrity and would continue to support electoral processes up to the conclusion of the 2026 General Election.

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