Report on the Embassy’s Election Observation Mission on the Zambian General Election

          On the occasion of the General Election on 12 August, the Embassy of Japan sent Election Observation Mission teams to three locations, Lusaka, Kabwe and Mazabuka, to monitor the voting and subsequent counting process. The Mission’s assessment is as follows.

          The elections were generally peaceful, with significantly higher turnout than in the previous elections. Many voters were patiently standing in queues, testifying to the strength of democracy in Zambia. On the other hand, it is regrettable that politically motivated violence, including murders, occurred in some areas.

          The voting and vote counting processes at the polling stations our teams observed were carried out in strict accordance with procedures and free and fair voting was generally ensured. However, the efficiency of the voting process at each polling station could be further improved.

          Finally, the Mission expresses its deepest gratitude to the Electoral Commission of Zambia and all those involved.