Voter Data Storm

TI-Z warns alleged collection of voter details could scare citizens and weaken confidence in Zambia’s 2026 elections

By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, Zambia24  -- (28-07-2026 -- Transparency International Zambia (TI-Z) has raised the alarm over reports that political operatives are allegedly collecting voters’ card numbers and National Registration Card (NRC) details, warning that the practice could leave citizens worried about whether their votes will remain secret.

TI-Z Executive Director Maurice Nyambe told journalists that the organisation’s long-term election observation mission had received reports of the alleged data-collection exercise, with monitors currently working to verify the claims across the country.

Mr. Nyambe said the reports had mentioned suspected involvement of members of the United Party for National Development (UPND), but stressed that TI-Z was still investigating the matter before making final conclusions.

He said the concerns had emerged in several districts, including Luangeni in Eastern Province, Zambezi and Mwinilunga in North-Western Province, Mansa in Luapula Province, Monze in Southern Province and Kasama in Northern Province.

Mr. Nyambe said many citizens in the affected areas were questioning why their personal details were being collected and what purpose the information would serve.

He warned that any activity that makes voters feel their choices can be identified or monitored risks damaging trust in the electoral process.

“The secrecy of the ballot is at the heart of every democratic election,” Mr. Nyambe said, adding that voters must have confidence that their decisions at the ballot box will remain private.

He further expressed concern that collecting personal information such as NRC numbers and voter details without clear explanation could raise serious questions about privacy, consent and the protection of citizens’ information.

Mr. Nyambe urged political parties and candidates to avoid actions that could create fear among voters or make them feel pressured when exercising their democratic rights.

He also called on the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) to step up its engagement with the public by addressing concerns surrounding the secrecy of the ballot.

Mr. Nyambe said the ECZ should provide regular information to reassure citizens and clear any doubts that may affect confidence in the electoral process.

Meanwhile, the TI-Z executive director reminded political parties and other electoral stakeholders of commitments they made during the 2025 Zambia Anti-Corruption Conference.

He said political parties, the ECZ, Human Rights Commission and civil society organisations pledged to promote peaceful, transparent and credible elections.

Mr. Nyambe said the commitments included rejecting political violence, conducting issue-based campaigns, allowing election observers to work freely and fighting electoral corruption.

However, he expressed disappointment that some of these promises appeared to be fading as campaigns became more intense.

He urged political parties and candidates to prove their commitment through their actions, saying the credibility of the elections would depend on how stakeholders behave before, during and after voting day.

Mr. Nyambe also criticised the growing number of campaign promises that he described as unrealistic and difficult to implement.

He said some political messages had shifted away from serious discussions about national challenges and instead focused on personal attacks and promises that lacked clear plans.

The TI-Z chief encouraged political parties to centre their campaigns on practical solutions to challenges affecting citizens, including the economy, jobs, education, healthcare, agriculture, governance and service delivery.

He warned that making promises that cannot be fulfilled could leave citizens disappointed and weaken trust in political leaders and democratic institutions.

Mr. Nyambe said voters deserve honest campaigns that allow them to make informed decisions based on realistic policies and clear plans.

He stressed that protecting the credibility of the 2026 elections was not only the responsibility of political parties and the ECZ, but also civil society, the media, traditional leaders, religious organisations and ordinary citizens.

Mr. Nyambe reaffirmed that TI-Z would continue monitoring the electoral process through polling day, vote counting and the announcement of results.

He urged all stakeholders to work together to ensure Zambia’s elections are remembered for peace, fairness and respect for the democratic rights of citizens.