Zambia candidate withdraws from by-election citing threats

Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD) parliamentary candidate Daniel Chisenga withdrew from the November 5 Mandevu by-election, citing life threats. Mr Chisenga stated yesterday that unknown individuals and political players threatened him, leading to his decision to quit the race. He has informed the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) of his withdrawal.

Chisenga's exit reduces the number of candidates for the Mandevu seat to three, with the constituency having over 123,000 registered voters. The remaining candidates are Adrian Banda of the UPND, Ntazana Musukuma of the Leadership Movement, and independent Daniel Daka. The ECZ is training 730 poll staff in Lusaka to ensure professionalism and impartiality.

ECZ vice-chairperson Vincent Mukanda urged poll staff to be exemplary and familiarise themselves with the Electoral Code of Conduct. Acting chief electoral officer Collins Kachaka also stressed the importance of accurate record-keeping and control at polling stations. The Tonse Pamodzi Alliance has asked the ECZ to cancel the by-election, alleging intimidation and offers of incentives to candidates.

Why it mattersThe Mandevu by-election in Zambia is affected by candidate withdrawals due to threats, impacting the electoral process and voter choice.

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