ECZ UPDATE ON BALLOT PAPER PRINTING IN DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES AS AT TUESDAY, 22ST JULY 2026

LUSAKA – The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has issued a comprehensive update regarding the ongoing printing of ballot papers for the highly anticipated 2026 General Elections, currently underway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. As of Tuesday, July 22, 2026, the process is nearing completion, with significant milestones achieved by the contracted firm, Al Ghurair Printing Company. This update comes amidst heightened public interest and, at times, speculation surrounding the integrity and transparency of the electoral preparations. According to the latest figures released on July 21, 2026, Al Ghurair Printing Company has successfully completed the printing of approximately 30.18 million ballot papers, representing a substantial 86% of the total estimated requirement of 36.47 million. This progress positions the ECZ well within its logistical timelines, despite earlier administrative hitches that had caused some delays in the verification of ballot paper proofs. The delays were primarily attributed to a high volume of candidate nominations and subsequent withdrawals or resignations, necessitating meticulous re-verification processes to ensure accuracy. The ECZ has consistently emphasized its commitment to transparency throughout the printing exercise. Political party representatives, civil society organizations, and media personnel have been invited to Dubai to observe the process firsthand. These stakeholders have largely expressed satisfaction with the openness, security measures, and progress observed at the Al Ghurair facility. The printing company has also implemented advanced security features, including tamper-evident seals and detailed packing lists with serial numbers, to safeguard the integrity of the ballot papers during transit and upon arrival in Zambia. In response to various social media allegations, particularly claims that extra ballot papers were being secretly printed in Tanzania, the ECZ Chief Electoral Officer, Brown Kasaro, firmly refuted