ECZ SAYS PRESIDENT HICHILEMA NOT BOUND BY PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN TIMETABLE

LUSAKA – The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has issued a significant clarification regarding the parameters of presidential campaigning, stating unequivocally that the incumbent Head of State, President Hakainde Hichilema, is not subject to the same campaign timetable constraints as other presidential aspirants. This pronouncement, delivered by ECZ officials, underscores a long-standing practice and legal interpretation that differentiates the continuous public duties of a sitting president from the defined campaign periods for general elections. According to the ECZ, the President's engagement with the public, including official tours, commissioning of projects, and addressing citizens, falls under the purview of his constitutional responsibilities and is considered part of his ongoing mandate. These activities, while they may have political implications, are not classified as campaign events in the same vein as those conducted by non-incumbent candidates during the officially designated campaign window. This distinction aims to prevent the paralysis of government functions during election periods and acknowledges the unique role of the presidency. Critics often argue that this provision provides an unfair advantage to the incumbent, allowing them to utilise state resources and platforms for what can be perceived as de facto campaigning outside the regulated period. However, the ECZ maintains that its role is to interpret and apply the existing electoral laws and regulations, which currently do not impose a campaign timetable on a sitting president performing official duties. The commission further stressed the importance of ensuring a level playing field for all candidates, while also respecting the constitutional obligations of the Head of State. The debate surrounding the incumbent's campaign activities is not new to Zambia's political landscape. Past elections have seen similar discussions, with opposition parties frequently calling for stricter regula