Tonse Alliance demands urgent meeting with Electoral Commission of Zambia over electoral process bill

The Tonse Alliance has formally requested an urgent meeting with the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) amid concerns over the proposed Electoral Process Bill and the country’s electoral roadmap ahead of the 2026 general elections.

In a letter dated April 7, 2026, and addressed to Chief Electoral Officer Brown Kasaro, Alliance Secretary General Dr. Chris Zimba said the request reflected growing unease among its member organizations regarding key aspects of the bill currently under consideration, as well as broader preparations for the upcoming polls.

“The provisions in the proposed law raise questions that require clarity, consultation, and consensus building in order to maintain public trust,” Zimba noted.

He explained that the request for talks was made in the spirit of constructive engagement and national interest, emphasizing the urgency of the matter and proposing that the meeting be held within 48 hours.

“The concerns particularly relate to the administration, management, and oversight of elections, the fair and equitable participation of political parties and independent candidates, and the safeguarding of electoral integrity, accountability, and constitutional compliance,” Zimba said.

He further stressed that the Tonse Alliance remained committed to working with ECZ to strengthen electoral governance and uphold the democratic will of the Zambian people.

“Considering the significance of these matters, the Tonse Alliance will avail its Presidents, Secretary Generals, and senior leadership to participate in this engagement at the highest level,” he added.

The Tonse Alliance is a coalition of over 30 political parties and allied civil society organizations, all of which have backed the request, Zimba said.

Among those who have endorsed the request letter are Alliance President Brian Mundubile, Vice President Chifumu Banda, and senior member Davies Chisopa.

The move highlights growing tension between political stakeholders and the ECZ, as parties seek assurances on electoral administration and the protection of democratic processes ahead of Zambia’s pivotal elections later this year.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.