Lusaka: The European External Action Service has announced the deployment of an independent Election Observation Mission to the Republic of Zambia for the general elections scheduled for 13th August 2026. This mission follows an official invitation from the Zambian government to provide a comprehensive assessment based on the national legal framework and regional and international standards for democratic elections.
According to Emirates News Agency, Kaja Kallas, High Representative of the European Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, has appointed Michael McNamara, Member of the European Parliament, as Chief Observer of the mission. This initiative marks the sixth instance of such collaboration under the long-standing partnership between the EU and Zambia since 2001. McNamara expressed his anticipation of engaging with all stakeholders, including state institutions, political parties, candidates, and civil society organisations, as preparations for the mission's field deployment get underway.
The mission's activities will commence with the arrival of 11 election experts at the end of June, followed by a team of 32 long-term observers, and later, 32 short-term observers ahead of polling day. The mission aims to conduct a thorough evaluation of the electoral process, ensuring it aligns with both national and international democratic standards.
Concluding its work, the mission will release a preliminary statement after the elections, which will be succeeded by a final report. This report will contain recommendations intended to contribute to the enhancement of future electoral processes in Zambia.