Zambia: Zambia Suspends Vote Counting Nationwide Amid Violence, Ballot Theft Reports
[Nile Post] The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has suspended the counting and announcement of election results across the country following reports of violence targeting election officials and the alleged theft of marked ballot papers.
The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has halted the count of election results nationwide due to reports of violence against election officials and alleged ballot paper theft. This suspension, announced on August 14, 2026, followed the country's general election where citizens voted for a president, MPs, and other leaders. ECZ Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis expressed concern over incidents in some districts during the counting and result declaration.
The ECZ cited security concerns and threats of violence as reasons for the halt, which is not permanent and they will re-evaluate the situation within 24 hours. The election, closely watched amid economic challenges, saw over eight million registered voters. Incumbent President Hakainde Hichilema was contesting for a second term against several challengers, including opposition leader Brian Mundubile, who claimed victory despite the ECZ not announcing official results. The suspension was in contrast to the earlier expectation of announcing the winner by August 17.
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