Deployment of election observers promotes transparent elections-…

Dr Sesa notes that Zambia has continued to play an active role in SADC electoral observation missions across the region, a development that has contributed to the country’s hosting of one of the largest SADC Election Observation Missions (SEOM). Dr Sesa, who is a SEAC member from the Republic of Botswana, said this in an interview with the media on the sidelines of a four-day training workshop for SADC election observers in Lusaka . He said it is important for observers to be oriented and have a comprehensive understanding of the country’s legal framework such as Electoral Acts and republican constitution governing elections in order to effectively execute their mandate.

Dr Sesa stated that the training workshop is intended to equip Observers with adequate knowledge of Zambia’s legal and electoral framework before they are deployed across all 10 provinces of the country to monitor the electoral process. On the voters, the SEAC Deputy Chairperson encouraged voters in Zambia, to ensure they carry the required identification documents to facilitate a smooth voting process. Dr Sesa expressed optimistic that the general elections would be held in a peaceful environment Ms Mtanga said the aspiring candidates are contesting in Central, Copperbelt and Lusaka provinces.

She added that the Movement has also intensified civic and voter education through secondary school outreach programmes targeting first-time voters. She has since encouraged more young women to take advantage of the Mixed Member Proportional Representation electoral system which provides greater opportunities for them to seek elective office through reserved seats.