Outbreaks of political violence have marred the conclusion of Zambia’s candidate nomination process, casting a shadow over the official launch of the country’s 90-day election campaign window.

The recent unrest across several areas has sparked widespread concern among civil society and citizens who had hoped for a peaceful transition into the final stretch ahead of the general election scheduled for August 13. Electoral stakeholders and religious leaders have urged all political actors to adhere strictly to the electoral code of conduct following localized clashes between rival party supporters.

According to Correspondent in the capital, Arthur Davies Sikopo, security forces have intensified patrols in Lusaka and other volatile hotspots to prevent further friction. He reports that while the atmosphere at several nomination centres remained vibrant and orderly, the scattered incidents of violence underscore the deep tensions heading into the high-stakes campaign sprint.

The completion of this crucial constitutional milestone effectively draws a line in the sand for the Southern African nation, locking in the final list of candidates who will appear on the ballot paper and leaving unqualified hopefuls on the sidelines.

According to Zambian electoral law, the closing of nominations formally triggers the mandatory three-month campaign period, giving candidates a defined window to canvas for votes before the electorate heads to the polls.

–ChannelAfrica–