THE Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has postponed the holding of nominations and polls for the Mongu District Mayoral by-election in Western Province and two Local Government Ward by-elections in Northern and Southern Provinces to March 22 and April 14, respectively.

The commission had earlier prescribed Thursday, April 7, 2022, as the date to hold the three by-elections, while nominations were to be conducted on March 15.

But in a statement, Monday, ECZ Corporate Affairs Manager Patricia Luhanga said the postponement had been necessitated by the death of fourth Republican president Rupiah Banda, which had resulted in the observance of the national mourning.

“Notice is hereby given to the general public that the Electoral Commission of Zambia has postponed the holding of nominations and polls for the Mongu District Mayoral by-election in Western Province and two (2) Local Government Ward by-elections in Lukutu Ward of Luwingu Town Council in Northern Province and Katimba Ward of Monze Town Council in Southern Province. The Commission has since prescribed Tuesday 22nd March 2022 as nomination day. Polls will take place on Thursday 14th April, 2022 from 06:00hrs to 18:00hrs. The postponement has been necessitated by the death of Zambia’s 4th Republican President Mr. Rupiah Bwezani Banda which has resulted into the observance of the national mourning,” stated Luhanga.

“The Commission had earlier prescribed Tuesday 15th March 2022 and Thursday 7th April, 2022 as dates of nominations and polls respectively for the three by-elections. In view of this, the Commission wishes to advise all aspiring candidates, political parties and stakeholders to take note of the new dates and prepare accordingly. The schedule of other electoral activities such as accreditation of political parties/candidate representatives, Civil Society Organisations and the Media shall be advised in due course.”