Logistics challenges delay polling in Kitwe as voters turn out in large numbers

Logistical challenges delayed the opening of several polling stations in Kitwe on Thursday, as large numbers of voters turned out early to cast their ballots in Zambia’s general elections.

Although voters began arriving before the scheduled opening time of 06:00 hours, voting at some polling stations only commenced after 07:00 hours.

Returning officers attributed the delays to the late arrival of ballot papers and other election materials.

At Isuko Primary School polling station, voting began at about 06:55 hours, while Chimwemwe Secondary School opened at around 07:30 hours.

Freedom Park polling station opened at 08:10 hours, while voting at Nkana Trust School commenced at 07:33 hours.

Despite the delays, long queues were observed at several polling stations across the city, with voters waiting patiently to cast their ballots.

Stakeholders expressed confidence that the elections would remain peaceful, urging voters to maintain calm and order throughout the process.

Augustine Mutale, a trustee of the Zambia Former Freedom Fighters Association Copperbelt chapter, urged citizens to protect the peace the country had enjoyed.

“I have confidence in the Zambian people. The elections will be peaceful. We need to guard the peace we have enjoyed jealously,” Mutale said in an interview after casting his vote at Isuko Primary School.

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