Commonwealth and EU witness HH cast a vote

By Pamela Mulenga

It was a jubilant moment shortly after 13:00 hours witnessing of the United Party for National Development (UPND) Alliance Presidential candidate Hakainde Hichilema’s cast his vote at Kabulonga Boys Secondary School in Lusaka Central Constituency.

While, his main rival, the incumbent Edgar Chagwa Lungu cast his vote in Chawama Constituency, in a low key atmosphere  Mr. Hichilema and  wife Mutinta Hichilema and their  two children were received by expectant and resolute voters, who let the cat out of their individual hats chanting; Bally, Badly. Bally…Enough is Enough…We want Change!”

Earlier a Commonwealth delegation headed by former Tanzanian President Jakaya Kikwete and the European Union and African Union Observer missions waited to witness Hichilema, a major opposition leader cast his vote for  close to an hour while monitoring the electoral situation.

When reached for a comment, Zambian Developmental Media (ZADEMA) Executive President, Derrick Sinjela extolled the Zambian electorate for turning up in large numbers.

Mr. Sinjela expressed delight that a good turnout necessary as it’s outcome is notably free, fair and credible

Sinjela told the author that any perceived manipulation of the election result is usually impaired by apathy, a reluctance voters to cast votes despite being eligible to vote.

On his part, Dignity Restoration  Action Forum (DRAF) Executive Director, Nzenze Banda argued that a good outcome representative of the people’s goodwill must remain transparent.

Flacked by DRAF National Administrator, Fredrick Mutale Mulenga, Lieutenant Colonel Banda implored the Electoral Commission of Zambia to enhance comprehensive  observance of electoral rules and regulations.