By MAIMBO MWEEMBA
Printing of presidential ballot papers for the August, 12 General Election is set to commence following the verification and endorsement of print proofs.
The signing of the printing of the ballots was witnessed by Electoral Commission of Zambia Vice Chairperson Emily Sikazwe, Commissioner Retired Major General Vincent Mukanda, ECZ staff and stakeholders.
PF National Vice Chairperson Davies Chama added his signature on behalf of the party and Linda Nkonde endorsed her signature on behalf of the UPND.
The presidential ballot papers, which are first verified by the 16 political parties in Lusaka, and later by the two representatives present in Dubai, will have 16 candidates, making it the longest list of those aspiring to run for the presidency, compared
to the 2016 general elections which only had nine candidates.
Other stakeholders yet to send their representatives are Lumezi Independent candidate Munir Zulu and the latest expected to join the Zambia team in Dubai is a representative by the Democratic Party who is expected any time soon.
And stakeholders have described the printing process in Dubai, as being transparent and have commended the Electoral Commission of Zambia in the manner they have handled it.
PF Deputy National Chairperson Davies Chama said the party is pleased with the whole printing process as its expectations have been met.
And UPND Representative Linda Nkonde pointed out that as a party the key thing was for transparency and access to the printing areas of the company.
Ms Nkonde who was briefed by the commission and undertook a tour of the plant said the party wants to be guaranteed of a free and fair election on August 12 as the process is being undertaken.
