Zambia Receives EU Election Follow-up Report, Pledges Continued Reform
In a ceremony held at Lusaka’s Charter House, Zambia’s Acting Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, received the European Union’s (EU) final report on their 2024 Election Follow-up Mission.
Minister Haimbe expressed his appreciation for the EU’s ongoing support in strengthening Zambia’s electoral processes.
He highlighted the report’s timely arrival, allowing the government and stakeholders to collaboratively address key areas identified.
These areas include increasing participation by women and vulnerable groups, and ensuring a level playing field for all participants in elections.
The Minister emphasized the government’s dedication to reform, citing the recent passage of the Access to Information Law as a concrete example.
He reaffirmed their commitment to working with the EU and other key stakeholders to ensure successful electoral reforms that achieve their stated goals.
EU Ambassador, Ms. Karolina Stasiak, commended Zambia for its role as a regional example of how democracy can empower citizens and contribute to sustainable development.
She explained that the report follows an EU election follow-up mission conducted in January 2024.
Ambassador Stasiak highlighted the EU’s long-standing partnership with Zambia in election observation, dating back to 2006.
She further acknowledged Zambia’s progress, particularly the enactment of the Access to Information Law and the removal of the Defamation of the President law.
Finally, Ambassador Stasiak expressed the EU’s appreciation for the Zambian government’s ongoing efforts towards achieving successful electoral reforms, specifically under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema.
