The voter registration exercise in Luampa District of Western Province this morning commenced with an enthusiastic turnout, with scores of residents lining up as early as 7:00 AM to register.
The exercise, which began on October 13 and is set to conclude on November 11, 2023, has already sparked calls for an extension from community members.
A check by the Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) found long queues of residents eager to register, some arriving before official opening hours.
The high participation is largely attributed to the recent roll-out of National Registration Cards (NRCs), which has enabled many first-time voters to participate.
Kayombo Mutesi, a resident of Makuyu in Kahumbu Ward, Luampa Constituency, highlighted the significant number of first-time registrants.
“Many people did not have National Registration Cards (NRCs) in 2021 despite qualifying as voters, so they couldn’t register then,” Mutesi explained.
He expressed gratitude to the government, stating, “We thank the government for rolling out the issuance of NRCs effectively, this has enabled a number of people to turn up for voter registration.”
Given the large number of new registrants, Mutesi has since urged the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) to consider extending the registration period.
Meanwhile, residents in Chacha have lauded the voter education exercise being implemented by the ECZ alongside the registration process.
Judy Mabenga of Sepo Village in Chacha told ZANIS that the initiative is proving crucial for rural communities.
“Most people in this area don’t understand the importance of voter registration, which often leads to low voter turnout.
“With the implementation of voter education, we have learned the importance of exercising our rights to vote. This time, I expect a large turnout, especially among young people,” she said.
Masumo Ngenda, from Kakulo Village further emphasised the value of the education programme, particularly regarding the removal of deceased voters from the roll.
“Removing deceased voters is one area people haven’t taken seriously, but through voter education, I’ve learnt the importance of having the deceased removed to reduce the cost of running elections.
“The resources saved can then be channeled to other developmental programmes,” Ngenda explained.
The voter registration exercise will provide citizens with a critical window to secure their right to participate in future elections.
