ZASAA URGES SAFETY IN CAMPAIGNS

Warns political parties, drivers and organisers over rising risks from rallies, convoys and public gatherings

By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, Zambia24 --- (1-07-2026) — The Zambia Safety Awards for Excellence (ZASAA) has issued a strong warning to political parties and campaign organisers to prioritise public safety as the country enters the election campaign period, cautioning that poorly managed rallies, reckless driving and inadequate planning could lead to preventable injuries or deaths.

ZASAA says the expected surge in political gatherings, road convoys and temporary event structures presents serious health and safety risks that require immediate and coordinated planning by all stakeholders involved in campaign activities.

Founder and Chief Executive Officer Hellen Mwamba said safety must not be treated as an afterthought during political mobilisation, stressing that every stage of campaign organisation should include clear risk controls and emergency preparedness measures.

She said organisers must conduct risk assessments ahead of rallies, enforce crowd management systems, ensure the structural safety of stages and temporary installations, and provide first-aid and emergency response services at all events.

“Campaign activities bring people together, but they also increase risks. Safety must be built into every event from the planning stage,” Ms Mwamba said.

The organisation also raised concern over rising risks on the roads during campaign periods, urging convoy drivers and motorists to strictly observe traffic regulations and avoid dangerous driving behaviour.

Ms Mwamba said road discipline would be critical in preventing accidents, particularly as political parties move supporters across different parts of the country.

She further called for closer coordination between campaign organisers, local authorities, emergency responders, healthcare providers and law enforcement agencies to ensure that all events are properly secured and supported by emergency systems.

“Every Zambian has the right to participate in the democratic process and return home safely, regardless of political affiliation,” she said.

ZASAA warned that no political ambition or mobilisation effort should come at the cost of human life, adding that safety standards must be strengthened throughout the campaign period.

The organisation said it will continue promoting occupational health, environmental safety and public safety practices nationwide, urging stakeholders to treat the campaign season as a high-risk period requiring discipline and responsibility.

ZASAA has since called for a peaceful, orderly and safety-conscious campaign environment, stressing that while elections are temporary, human life remains irreplaceable.