Elections were credible and represent further progress for Zambia, though some shortcomings remain to be addressed
Commonwealth Secretary-General, Mr Kamalesh Sharma, today released the Final Report of the Commonwealth Observer Group which observed the 20 September General Elections in Zambia.
In issuing the report, he said: "The Commonwealth Observer Group found that overall the elections were credible and the handover of power was smooth and dignified.”
The Secretary-General noted: “The Group found that the elections were highly competitive and the Electoral Commission of Zambia played a critical role through its sound management of the process. However, some shortcomings remain to be addressed, notably biased and provocative media coverage and misuse of state resources by the incumbent during the campaign.”
Mr Sharma stressed: “The Commonwealth stands ready to assist Zambia in further strengthening its democratic process.”
Note to Editors
The Report was completed and signed by all members of the Commonwealth Observer Group prior to their departure from Zambia. It was presented to the Commonwealth Secretary-General by the Chair of the Group, H.E. General Yakubu Gowon, a former Head of State of Nigeria. It has subsequently been distributed to the Government of Zambia, political parties, the Electoral Commission and all other Commonwealth governments.
