Operation Young Vote (OYV) has called on stakeholders and political parties, to prioritize vote protection to maintain the integrity and credibility of electoral and democratic processes.
OYV Executive Director Guess Nyirenda says vote protection is essential to upholding the people’s will, transcending party interests.
In a statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today, Mr. Nyirenda has urge all stakeholders and political parties especially those in the opposition to ensure that their investment in electoral matters is not devoid, as this is crucial for ensuring the integrity and credibility of democratic processes.
“Protected votes are the foundation of fair, transparent, and credible democratic processes that truly reflect the people’s will,” said Mr. Nyirenda.
Mr. Nyirenda said vote protection will ensure accurate vote counting to prevent tampering and manipulation, preventing voter suppression through the deterrence of intimidation and disenfranchisement, and promoting transparency and accountability to strengthen public trust in electoral institutions.
He has urged political parties and candidates to take concrete steps, including deploying trained polling agents, educating voters about their rights and the voting process, and leveraging technology to boost the transparency and efficiency of elections.
Mr. Nyirenda has appealed to all stakeholders including the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) and civil society organizations to collaborate in protecting votes and ensuring accurate counting and results in every election.
By Margaret Mwanza
