The Non governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council NGOCC has expressed concern over increasing reports of candidate withdrawals in the ongoing electoral process, citing fears that alleged intimidation and political pressure could undermine democratic participation.
NGOCC Board Chairperson Beauty Katebe says reports emerging from areas such as Kalomo suggest that some independent and opposition candidates have withdrawn from electoral contests, leaving only ruling party candidates on the ballot.
Ms. Katebe says while candidates may voluntarily withdraw for personal or strategic reasons, the growing pattern of withdrawals reported in several areas has raised legitimate public concern over possible intimidation, coercion and fear.
She warns that such developments risk weakening public confidence in the integrity, competitiveness and inclusiveness of Zambia’s democratic process.
She has since called on the Zambia Police Service and other law enforcement agencies to urgently investigate reports surrounding candidate withdrawals and any alleged acts of intimidation, harassment or coercion.
Meanwhile, Ms. Katebe encouraged citizens, candidates and community members to report incidents of intimidation, threats, violence or coercion to relevant authorities.
By Cherish Sibote
