Prisons Care and Counselling Association (PRISCA) Executive Director, Godfrey Malembeka, has called on government to intensify voter education in correctional facilities ahead of the 2026 General Elections, saying incarcerated persons are also key participants in the country’s democracy.
Mr. Malembeka says inmates must be adequately informed about the electoral process and the importance of choosing leaders of their choice.
Speaking in an interview with RCV News in Lusaka today, Mr. Malembeka noted that despite being incarcerated, eligible inmates retain their democratic rights and should not be left out of national civic processes.
“There is need for voter education sensitization so that those that are eligible to vote can do so based on informed decisions,” said Mr. Malembeka.
He said enhanced voter education would help ensure informed participation and strengthen democratic inclusion.
He further revealed that PRISCA is engaging potential corporate partners to work with government, the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), and other stakeholders to deliver comprehensive voter education programmes in prisons.
Mr. Malembeka also recalled that in the 2021 General Elections, inmates did not receive sufficient voter education, a situation he said should not be repeated as the country heads to the 2026 polls.
He has further urged authorities to act early to ensure that all eligible voters, including those incarcerated, are adequately prepared and informed ahead of the elections.
By Maragret Mwanza
