ZAFOD Welcomes Hybrid System but Warns ECZ on Accessibility Gaps

Federation applauds shift to physical applications but raises concerns over late changes, limited timeframe and barriers facing disabled election observers

By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, Zambia24 — (24-07-2026) -- The Zambia Federation of Disability Organisations (ZAFOD) has welcomed the Electoral Commission of Zambia’s (ECZ) decision to introduce a hybrid accreditation system for election observers ahead of the 13 August general elections, but has warned that the late announcement and inadequate stakeholder engagement could undermine efforts to ensure an inclusive electoral process.

In a statement issued Thursday, ZAFOD Federal Director Justine Bbakali said the federation appreciated the ECZ’s response to concerns raised in May over the initial decision to introduce an online-only accreditation system, which ZAFOD argued would have disadvantaged many persons with disabilities and their organisations seeking to participate as election observers.

The revised hybrid system, which allows applicants to submit accreditation requests either online or physically through District Electoral Offices, represents a positive step towards improving access, according to ZAFOD.

However, the federation expressed concern that the adjustment was made too close to the election period and without sufficient consultation with key stakeholders.

“While this change is ultimately positive, ZAFOD laments the late announcement of the new system and poor communication and consultation with stakeholders prior to the finalisation and dissemination of the accreditation guidelines,” Bbakali said.

ZAFOD stressed that inclusion goes beyond providing different application channels, urging the ECZ to ensure that the entire accreditation process is accessible to persons with different disabilities.

The federation called on the Commission to ensure that District Electoral Offices are adequately staffed, trained and equipped to handle physical applications, while accreditation centres such as the Mulungushi International Conference Centre provide reasonable accommodation for persons with disabilities.

It further urged the ECZ to provide election-related information in accessible formats, including sign language interpretation, easy-to-read materials, audio formats and other alternative communication methods.

ZAFOD also called for stronger support and awareness among Organisations of Persons with Disabilities (OPDs) to enable them to participate effectively as accredited election observers.

The federation’s concerns come as the ECZ begins issuing accreditation cards, with the physical application process expected to commence on 25 July and run until the 11 August deadline — a timeframe ZAFOD says may create additional challenges for applicants.

The organisation urged the Commission to consider easing some administrative requirements, including the submission of photographs and National Registration Cards, arguing that physical verification during the application process could address such concerns.

“Accessibility is not only about removing physical barriers. It is about creating conditions that enable all citizens and stakeholders to participate meaningfully, independently and with dignity in the electoral process,” Bbakali said.

ZAFOD further reminded political parties, civil society organisations, the media and development partners that disability inclusion must be treated as a fundamental element of credible and transparent elections rather than an issue addressed as an afterthought.

The federation reaffirmed its willingness to work with the ECZ to strengthen inclusion, while emphasising that the Commission must meet its obligations under Zambian law and international standards protecting the rights of persons with disabilities.

With Zambia’s 8.78 million registered voters preparing for the 13 August polls, including thousands of persons with disabilities, ZAFOD said the introduction of the hybrid system was a welcome development but cautioned that more measures were needed to guarantee meaningful participation for all.