ECZ SAYS POLITICAL PARTIES TO FUND OWN OBSERVERS FOR BALLOT PRINTING IN DUBAI

LUSAKA – The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has confirmed that political parties intending to dispatch observers to monitor the printing of ballot papers in Dubai will be fully responsible for covering all associated costs. This declaration, made by the ECZ, underscores a significant shift in the funding model for electoral oversight, placing the onus directly on political organisations rather than the state or the Commission itself. Historically, the process of printing ballot papers abroad has been a contentious issue in Zambia, often drawing scrutiny regarding transparency and the potential for manipulation. The decision to print in Dubai, a common practice for many African nations, is intended to ensure security and efficiency, but the funding directive for observers introduces new complexities. Political parties, already grappling with campaign expenses, will now face additional financial strain to ensure their presence at this critical stage of the electoral cycle. This could potentially disadvantage smaller parties or those with limited financial resources, thereby impacting the breadth of oversight. The ECZ's stance is rooted in its mandate to conduct free and fair elections, yet its operational decisions often face public and political scrutiny. While the Commission argues that its resources are primarily allocated to core electoral activities within Zambia, the requirement for parties to fund their observers abroad raises concerns about equitable access to transparency mechanisms. Critics contend that if the ECZ is committed to a fully transparent process, it should facilitate, or at least subsidise, the participation of key stakeholders in all critical stages, including ballot printing. This development comes at a crucial time as Zambia prepares for upcoming elections. The integrity of the ballot printing process is paramount to building public confidence in the electoral outcome. Without broad and diverse observation, there is a risk of fueling