PROPORTIONAL REPRESENTATION SEATS- THINGS TO KNOW.
1. The Electoral Commission of Zambia will seven days after the swearing-in of a President-elect, distribute proportional representation seats in the National Assembly and Councils in accordance with the proportion of the total number of valid votes received by a Presidential candidate in the initial ballot.
2. A party with no Presidential candidate will not receive any proportional representation seats in the distribution.
3. Within 7-days of ECZ distribution of seats, a party is required to submit a party-list upon payment of a fee.
4. A party shall not include on the party list a person who contested in the elective seats. So those who run for office are disqualified.
5. Youth candidates on a party list must be youths for the entire duration of the term of the National Assembly/Council. (If you are already 30yrs old you may not qualify. See constitutional definition of youth)
6. Candidates on the proportional representation seats for persons with disabilities should be persons registered. (Get your card).
7. A political party that sponsored the candidate on a proportional representation seat may recall that person any time.
8. The grounds upon which a seat can become vacant are simillar to those of the direct vote ward or constituency seats.
This is civic education, to keep citizens and electoral stakeholders informed on civic matters. For tailor made legal solutions, seek legal counsel of your choice.
End.
Muleta Kapatiso LLB-LLM-AHCZ