ECZ Reports 68% of Ballot Papers Printed for August 13 Polls

By Pauline Ngozoh

The Electoral Commission of Zambia has announced that the printing and packaging of ballot papers for the 13th August, 2026 General Election is progressing well.

ECZ Commissioner McDonald Chipenzi, who is in Dubai, reported that all 9.1 million Presidential ballot papers had been successfully printed. He also stated that 3,018,750 ballot papers for 96 constituencies for the National Assembly elections had been printed so far.

The Commissioner further indicated that 5,258,800 ballot papers for Mayoral and Council Chairperson elections in 77 districts had been completed, while 6,574,750 ballot papers for 1,340 wards had also been printed.

He noted that this brought the combined total to 23,970,600 ballot papers, which represents 68% of the total required, with 32% remaining. Chipenzi added that the shipping of the ballot papers from Dubai to Zambia was expected to commence on 26th July, 2026.

Commissioner Chipenzi explained that some administrative processes to ensure accuracy had caused a slight delay, but the Commission was working closely with staff and stakeholders to ensure timely delivery for the polls.

He commended the monitoring team comprising representatives from political parties, civil society, the church, security agencies, and the media for their dedication and resilience.

The Commissioner assured the nation that the production process adhered to strict international quality standards, and he confirmed that the Commission would continue to provide updates until the printing was concluded and all ballots delivered in Lusaka.