ECZ: CANDIDATES WHO RESIGN AFTER JULY 6 TO REMAIN ON BALLOT PAPERS

In a public notice signed by Patricia Luhanga, Corporate Affairs Manager for the Commission, the ECZ said the deadline was necessary because printing of ballot papers for the National Assembly, Mayoral/Council Chairperson and Councillor elections commenced on the same day.

Patricia Luhanga said, "6th July 2026 was the administrative cut-off date for the receipt of candidate resignations for purposes of removing candidates' names from the ballot papers for the 2026 General Election, as printing of ballot papers for the National Assembly, Mayoral/Council Chairperson and Councillor Elections commenced on that date."

She explained that candidates who submitted their resignations after the deadline, or who resign after that date, would still appear on the ballot papers because the printing process had already begun.

"Candidates who submitted their resignations after 6th July 2026, or who resign after that date, will still have their names appear on the ballot papers, as the printing process had already commenced. However, such candidates will no longer be eligible to contest the election, notwithstanding the appearance of their names on the ballot papers," Ms. Luhanga said.

She further said the Commission would issue Local Notices in areas where ballot papers contain the names of candidates who have since resigned to ensure voters are aware that those candidates are no longer eligible to contest.

"The Commission therefore advises members of the public that where a ballot paper contains the name of a candidate who has subsequently resigned, a Local Notice will be issued to clarify that such candidate is no longer eligible to contest the election," she said.

Luhanga also urged political parties, candidates and the public to take note of the information as preparations for the 2026 General Election continue.

"The Commission encourages all candidates and members of the public to take note of this information," she said.

[Brave Heart News  | UnlockingMinds]