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The Non-governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council (NGOCC) has warned political parties that demanding original documents from aspiring candidates is “illegal and unacceptable,” and cautioned that rising vote buying threatens the integrity of the 2026 elections.
NGOCC Board Chairperson, Beauty Katebe, said the organisation was “concerned and disappointed” by reports that some political parties were compelling aspiring Members of Parliament and local government candidates to surrender original credentials during adoption processes.
In a statement issued in Lusaka on Saturday, Katebe urged all aspirants to keep their original documents and advised those who had already surrendered them to retrieve them immediately from party secretariats.
“Original documents, including National Registration Cards (NRCs) and Grade 12 certificates, remain the personal property of individuals and must not be surrendered to any political party under any circumstances. Political parties are only permitted to request certified copies of such documents,” she said.
Katebe warned that the practice creates opportunities for coercion, as withholding original documents could give party officials undue control over candidates or risk disqualifying them during nomination filings.
She noted that while NRCs and Grade 12 certificates are required by law, the Electoral Commission of Zambia only demands certified copies.
Katebe said NGOCC was also increasingly alarmed by the “escalating practice of vote buying,” citing reports that some aspirants are offering food, money or material incentives in exchange for political support.
“NGOCC is equally concerned about the escalating practice of vote buying, where aspiring candidates offer food, money, or other incentives in exchange for votes,” she said.
She reminded voters that the ballot is secret, stressing that no political actor can verify how an individual has voted.
“Citizens must not feel coerced or obligated to vote for any candidate based on inducements or intimidation,” she said.
Katebe called on political parties to uphold democratic principles as the country heads toward the August 2026 polls, insisting that leadership must be built on transparency, accountability and respect for the law rather than corrupt practices.
She added that the organisation would not hesitate to report individuals or political parties involved in illegal activities to “relevant authorities, including the Anti-Corruption Commission.”
“The future of Zambia depends on electing leaders of integrity who respect the law and the will of the people. NGOCC therefore urges all stakeholders to play their part in safeguarding the credibility of the electoral process,” she said.
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