By ZR Reporter
The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has clarified that candidates who resigned after July 6, 2026, will still have their names printed on ballot papers for the upcoming General Election, even though they are no longer eligible to stand.
In a public notice released on Today 9th July 2026, the Commission said July 6 was the administrative deadline for processing candidate resignations before the printing of ballot papers began.
The ECZ explained that once printing commenced for the National Assembly, Mayoral or Council Chairperson and Councillor elections, it was no longer possible to remove the names of candidates who chose to withdraw after that date.
As a result, some ballot papers will still carry the names of candidates who have since stepped down from the race.
The Commission, however, emphasised that those candidates will not be allowed to participate in the August 13 General Election, regardless of the fact that their names remain on the ballot.
To help prevent confusion on polling day, the ECZ said local notices will be displayed in affected areas to inform voters that the candidates in question have officially withdrawn and are no longer eligible to contest the election.
The electoral body has urged members of the public to take note of the arrangement, saying it is a consequence of the ballot printing process already being underway before the resignations were received.
The clarification comes as the Commission continues making final preparations for the August 13 General Election.
© Zambia Reports | July 9, 2026