ECZ Suspends Counting and Announcement of Election Results Nationwide

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has suspended the counting and announcement of election results across the country with immediate effect following reports of violence in some districts.

In a statement issued today, August 14, 2026, ECZ says it has received concerning reports of violence during the counting and announcement of results, with some incidents allegedly targeting polling staff.

The Commission says some of the reported incidents have also resulted in the theft of marked ballot papers contained in ballot boxes.

“In view of the security situation and continued threats of violence, the Commission has with immediate effect suspended the counting and announcement of results throughout the country,” the statement reads.

ECZ says the decision has been taken in accordance with Section 67(3) of the Electoral Process Act No. 35 of 2016.

The Commission says the suspension will be reviewed within 24 hours.

The statement was signed by ECZ Chairperson Mwangala Zaloumis.

The development comes as Zambia awaits the outcome of the August 13 General Election, with counting and collation having been underway across the country.