July 8,2026-Luapula Province Province Electoral Officer Mr. Kambinga Nondo has called on District Election Trainers to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and political neutrality as they prepare to train frontline poll staff ahead of the 13th August 2026 General Elections.
Speaking during the official opening of the District Election Trainers’ (DETS) workshop held at Sali Resort and Teja Executive Lodge in Mansa, Mr. Nondo described the training as a critical milestone in the Electoral Commission of Zambia’s preparations for the General Elections, noting that similar workshops are taking place concurrently across all ten provinces.
He emphasized that District Election Trainers play a pivotal role in the electoral process, as the quality of polling day operations will largely depend on how effectively they transfer knowledge and skills to frontline election officers.
Mr. Nondo cautioned participants that even the smallest mistake during training could result in major errors on polling day, urging them to diligently safeguard the integrity of both the electoral process and the Electoral Commission of Zambia.
He further stressed that all election officials must perform their duties with absolute impartiality and unwavering political neutrality while strictly adhering to established electoral procedures from the opening of polling stations through vote counting, announcement and the final declaration of results.
The Provincial Electoral Officer also highlighted the Commission’s operational priorities for polling day, which include strict compliance with polling station opening and closing times, proper use of official election documents, accurate voter identification, correct issuance of ballot papers, application of inking procedures, and ensuring every ballot is properly cast.
Mr. Nondo further urged trainers to instill in poll staff the importance of providing efficient and respectful assistance to persons with disabilities, pregnant women and the elderly to guarantee an inclusive electoral process.
Expressing confidence in the Commission’s preparations, he said transparent and credible elections can only be achieved when every election officer fully understands and faithfully performs their responsibilities.
Earlier, District Electoral Officer Dr. Josephine Mwanza welcomed the participants to the workshop and encouraged them to fully dedicate themselves to the training.
Dr. Mwanza urged participants to remain focused throughout the workshop, emphasizing that the knowledge and practical skills they acquire will be critical in preparing competent frontline poll staff capable of delivering peaceful, transparent and credible elections across the province.
The District Election Trainers’ Workshop is expected to strengthen the capacity of trainers, who will subsequently train election officials in their respective districts as part of the Electoral Commission of Zambia’s preparations for the 2026 General Elections.
The first cohort has Kawambwa, Milenge, Lunga, Chembe, Chipili and Chienge districts.