The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has urged electoral stakeholders to take an active interest in the verification of ballot papers, describing the exercise as a critical stage in preparations for the 2026 General Elections.

ECZ Corporate Affairs Manager, Patricia Luhanga, has said that the final consignment of ballot papers is expected to arrive in Zambia on Friday, July 31, bringing the total number of flights carrying the ballot papers to six.

Speaking in an interview with TV1, Luhanga said the ballot papers will be secured at the Silverest Warehouse upon arrival, before the verification exercise begins.

She said the ballot papers are currently being packaged in Dubai.

Luhanga explained that the ballot paper production process, which was initially expected to be completed by July 28, was extended to July 31 following the withdrawal of some candidates and a court matter that needed to be resolved.

She, however, assured stakeholders that the Commission remains on schedule.

Luhanga has since called on stakeholders and media organisations wishing to witness and cover the ballot paper verification process to obtain accreditation.

She said accreditation is currently being conducted at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre.

By Esther Munanga.