Mazabuka Central independent candidate Gary Nkombo says reports suggesting that the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) may ban the candlelight symbol, if true, could result in constitutional and legal breaches.
Mr. Nkombo has stated that the candlelight symbol was officially allocated to him by the ECZ during the nomination process.
He explains that significant resources have already been invested in campaign materials bearing the symbol, including T-shirts, caps, posters, and a branded campaign vehicle.
He has further dismissed social media reports, alleging that he has joined another political party, maintaining that he remains an independent candidate in the Mazabuka Central parliamentary by-election.
Meanwhile, fellow independent candidate Alfred Hankede has refuted social media claims that he was among those who complained about Mr. Nkombo’s campaign activities at Ndeke Grounds.
Mr. Hankede says he never instructed the police to stop Mr. Nkombo’s campaign launch.
He has also expressed concern over the indefinite suspension of campaigns by police in Mazabuka Central, arguing that the district remains peaceful and that candidates have been conducting their campaigns in an orderly manner.
By Helga Chibwe
