BREAKING: Zambia on the brink as opposition leader claims electoral victory

LUSAKA – TENSIONS bedevilling Zambia’s election exercise have escalated after the main opposition leader claimed victory following Thursday’s election.

Meanwhile, the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) suspended the counting and announcement of results following outbreaks of violence and the theft of ballot boxes.

Brian Mundubile, flagbearer of the Tonse Alliance, claimed victory on Friday, suggesting he had defeated the incumbent, Hakainde Hichilema.

He said that, according to the results received and compiled through the party’s Parallel Voter Tabulation (PVT), based on information transmitted to them from polling stations and tallying centres across the country, their tabulation indicated that Tonse had won the election.

“We therefore view the continued delay in the transparent announcement and verification of the presidential results with grave concern,” Mundubile stated.

The ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) has accused Mundubile of treason following his claim of victory.

ECZ announced the postponement of the announcement.

“The Electoral Commission of Zambia has noted with concern reports of violence during the counting and announcement of results in some districts. The violence is targeted at polling staff and, in some instances, has resulted in the theft of marked ballot papers in ballot boxes,” Mwangala Zaloumis, ECZ chairperson, said.

She said that, in view of the security situation and continued threats of violence, the commission had, with immediate effect, suspended the counting and announcement of results throughout the country in accordance with sections of the Electoral Process Act.

Zaloumis said the commission would review the suspension within 24 hours.

There were reports of electoral officers being arrested for alleged malpractices during vote counting.

The two rival alliances, UPND and Tonse, traded accusations of violence.

This violence has prevailed for weeks.

On Friday, Hichilema stated: “We continue to receive encouraging results and reports of peace, unity and solidarity across our country as the votes come in. There is much in this moment to be grateful for.”

He encouraged: “Let us remain peaceful, patient and patriotic as we await the official outcome from those entrusted with managing the vote.”

Over 8 million Zambians are registered to vote.

Hichilema seeks a second term following his election in 2021.

– CAJ News