Civil Liberties Union calls for transparent, tech-driven delimitation process

The Zambian Civil Liberties Union (ZCLU) has urged the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) to incorporate modern technologies in the forthcoming delimitation exercise to enhance efficiency and transparency.

Acting Executive Director, Derick Chekwe, welcomed ECZ’s assurance that the process would be conducted transparently and inclusively.

“We commend the Commission’s commitment to engage all relevant stakeholders, including the Surveyor General, political parties, and civil society organisations,” he said.

In a statement issued in Lusaka on Wednesday, Chekwe encouraged political actors to approach the process constructively.

“We appeal to stakeholders, particularly political parties, to participate in good faith rather than politicise or undermine the initiative. These are the very constituencies in which they will be expected to field candidates in the August 2026 elections,” he observed.

Chekwe further emphasised the need to move beyond the polarised discourse surrounding the enacted Constitutional Amendment Bill Number 7.

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“It is imperative that we now focus on ensuring the delimitation process is conducted fairly and equitably for the benefit of all stakeholders,” he noted.

Chekwe also urged the ECZ to involve independent stakeholders in drafting the amended Electoral Process Act and the new Electoral Systems Act, as stipulated under Article 49 of the Constitution.

He highlighted the importance of public understanding and acceptance of the electoral system.

“The framework adopted must be transparent and resonate with the expectations of citizens and all stakeholders,” Chekwe stated.

He insisted that the responsibility of reshaping Zambia’s democratic landscape should not rest solely with the ECZ and government, stressing that the task was a transformative undertaking that would influence how the country’s leaders are chosen.

Chekwe reaffirmed the organisation’s stance on the need for transparency and broad-based engagement in all electoral reforms.

“The process must be inclusive, with active participation from political parties and civil society organisations to ensure legitimacy and public trust,” he emphasised.

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