VOTE PROTECTION: Barotseland Leader Urges ECZ To Ensure Transparent Elections As Royal Establishment Joins Prayers For Peace
Zambia Barotseland Border post
Reporter,
The Ngambela of Barotseland, Hon Rt. Mukela Manyando has appealed to the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) and all election officials to conduct the 13 August 2026 General Elections with the highest levels of transparency, professionalism and integrity, warning that any form of electoral malpractice could undermine peace and public confidence in the electoral process.
The appeal was made on Sunday during the Holy Mass for Peace and Unity held at St. Agatha Catholic Parish in Kapulanga, Mongu, where His Majesty the Litunga of Barotseland, Lubosi Imwiko II, joined hundreds of Catholic faithful in prayer ahead of Zambia’s 2026 General Elections.
The special Mass, organised by St. Agatha Catholic Church, brought together members of the Barotse Royal Establishment, clergy, traditional leaders, civil society representatives and political candidates from different parties to pray for peaceful elections before, during and after polling day.
Delivering the vote of thanks on behalf of the BRE, the Ngambela called upon the people of Western Province and the nation at large to preserve the peace that has long characterised Barotseland
He said that from the reign of the Lozi patriarch, Lubosi Lewanika I, Barotseland has remained a land known for peace, and urged citizens and political players not to allow elections to divide communities through violence, confrontation or intolerance.
The Ngambela stressed that elections are a cornerstone of democracy and should provide citizens with an opportunity to choose their leaders freely, peacefully and without intimidation.
Turning to the electoral process, the Ngambela made a direct appeal to the Electoral Commission of Zambia and all polling staff to discharge their duties impartially, professionally and transparently
He cautioned that any form of corruption, bias or mismanagement by election officials could create mistrust, fuel disputes and threaten the peaceful atmosphere that Zambians have maintained during the campaign period.
The Ngambela further emphasized that the counting and tabulation of ballots must be conducted openly and transparently so that all stakeholders can have confidence in the outcome of the elections and avoid unnecessary misunderstandings or conflicts.
He concluded by commending the people of Zambia for maintaining peace throughout the campaign period and encouraged them to continue demonstrating tolerance, unity and respect for one another as the country heads to the polls on 13 August.
The Mass also highlighted the important role played by the Church and traditional leadership in promoting dialogue, reconciliation and peaceful coexistence, particularly during periods of national significance such as elections.
The presence of the Litunga, senior members of the Barotse Royal Establishment and representatives from various political parties underscored a shared commitment to ensuring that the forthcoming General Election is conducted in an atmosphere of peace, credibility and respect for the will of the people.
Credit: Zambia Barotseland Border Post