By ALICE NACHILEMBE
The Zambia Centre for Interparty Dialogue (ZCID) has called on strict adherence to Covid-19 guidelines by political parties and other stakeholders during the election period.
ZCID Executive Director Doreen Kabwe said political parties are the key players in the electoral process to engage with voters and communicate their messages hence the need for them to be on the forefront to ensure adherence.
Ms Kabwe said the nation will hold these elections in a unique and different environment amidst the Covid-19 pandemic which has got the potential to claim lives if precaution measures are not taken.
The Centre would like to call on all Political Parties to strictly observe the Covid 19 golden rules as they engage in electoral activities. It is prudent that Political Parties join hands with the rest of the stakeholders in sensitizing the masses on the need to adhere to Covid-19 health guidelines in order to mitigate the further spread of the virus.
She said ZCID has highlighted the fact that Zambia as part of its preparations for the upcoming General elections in August 2021, required a structured and coherent approach to deal with the Covid 19 pandemic in relation to elections and public events such as political rallies, campaigns, voting among others.
Ms Kabwe has urged all Political Parties and other relevant stakeholders to acquaint themselves with the developed guidelines in order to enhance adherence to the Covid-19 golden rules and prevent the spread of the pandemic.
