*ZCID COMMENDS POLITICAL PARTIES FOR PEACEFUL CAMPAIGNS IN THE MAYEMBE WARD BY-ELECTIONS*
By Derrick Sinjela
Zambia Centre for Interparty Dialogue (ZCID) Executive Director Doreen Njovu-Kabwe is commending political parties for peaceful campaigns that have characterized Mayembe Ward by-election in Shiwang’andu District of Muching Province.
In a Wednesday, 24th January, 2024 Press Statement, Ms. Njovu-Kabwe is hopeful that the peaceful environment exhibited during the campaign period will continue in future by-elections to enrich Zambia’s democratic credentials.
“ZCID remains committed to promoting peace and stability in the country and wishes to call on all parties to engage in dialogue to find a peaceful resolution to any disputes that may arise during and after the by-election. We call on parties to respect the rule of law and to take all necessary measures to protect civilians and safeguard public infrastructure in areas where by-elections are taking place,” Ms. Njovu-Kabwe noted.
Ms. Njovu-Kabwe says ZCID is confident that the people of Mayembe exercised their democratic right to vote on Tuesday 23rd January, 2024.
The by-election was necessitated following the resignation and withdrawal of the area Ward Councilor, Mr. Hosea Chitemboi.
Mr. Chitemboi, who served as Mayembe Ward Councillor resigned on Sunday, 1st October, 2023 while Kellis Kalima resigned as Kapamba Ward Councillor on Tuesday, 24th November, 2023.
The two Patriotic Front Party Councillors resigned their elective civic positions to pursue personal endeavours.
Ms. Luhanga said nominations for the two by-elections were conducted on Tuesday, December 19, 2023.She added that all aspiring candidates in these by-elections will be required to pay stipulated non-refundable nomination fees.
Ms. Luhanga said male aspiring candidates wishing to contest had to pay K600 while female candidates will pay K500 while persons with disabilities will paying K500.
The Campaign period run from Thursday, December 21, 2023 and will end at 18:00 hours on Monday, January 22, 2024.
Zambia Centre for Interparty Dialogue (ZCID) Executive Director Doreen Njovu-Kabwe
