US senators urge peaceful and fair elections in Zambia ahead of August polls

As Zambia prepares for its significant elections scheduled for August 13th, a group of U.S. Senators has voiced their apprehensions over the country's political atmosphere. In a joint statement released today, Senators Jeanne Shaheen, Cory Booker, Jeff Merkley, and Chris Van Hollen emphasized their dedication to a peaceful, equitable democratic process.

They underscored the significance of transparent elections in sustaining the enduring alliance between the United States and Zambia. The senators recognized the robust cooperation between the two nations over the past two decades, including achievements in peacekeeping missions, health initiatives like the U.S. President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR), and various democracy-building efforts aimed at boosting global health, stability, and social mobility.

However, they warned that this partnership has encountered obstacles, particularly due to the previous administration's attempts to link crucial health assistance to mineral access through a contentious Global Health Memorandum of Understanding.

The senators expressed particular concern over the Zambian ruling party's efforts to undermine the electoral process prior to the August 13th polls. They noted a troubling pattern similar to previous election periods, where opposition figures, including current President Hakainde Hichilema, faced arrests and intimidation tactics aimed at silencing dissent.

The statement also highlighted the selective enforcement of laws governing political campaign gatherings, which disproportionately affects opposition parties. Additionally, the senators were alarmed by hasty reforms to Zambia’s constitutional and electoral structures, conducted without sufficient consultation with civil society, a development they deemed detrimental to genuine democratic processes.

In their appeal, the senators urged all political parties and candidates in Zambia to adhere to principles of peace and fairness, calling for consistent and impartial application of laws irrespective of political allegiance. They also encouraged the U.S. Department of State to enhance engagement with Zambian civil society, reinforcing collaborative efforts to uphold democracy and the rule of law during this critical juncture.

Concluding on a cautious note, the senators acknowledged the endeavors of Zambian advocacy groups striving to ensure election integrity and expressed hope that the upcoming elections will facilitate a contest characterized by freedom and fairness.