Mongu District Electoral Officer, Oliver Muuka, has called on various political parties in the district to co-exist before, during and after the two upcoming local government by- elections in Litawa and Mutondo wards in Nalikwanda Constituency.
Mr Muuka says political players were key drivers in maintaining peace and unity of the nation as they have the power to control electorates and party members from engaging themselves in political violence.
The media reports that Mr Muuka was speaking today during the briefing meeting held at Council Chamber in Mongu, indicating that failure by any political parties to maintain orders can disrupt electoral process and trigger confusions in the country.
He has since implored all political parties in the district to abide by electoral laws and regulations in order to ensure a peaceful electoral environment for voters.
Mr Muuka was quick to warn that the law will punish anyone found wanting regardless of their political affiliations.
He has also urged Journalists to report fairly and balance their stories to ensure equal coverage of all political parties, adding that any unprofessional reporting has the potential of plunging the country into political chaos.
And Litawa Ward Assistant Returning Officer, Simaubi Mazala, said Police Officers also play a critical role in ensuring elections are conducted in a peaceful and transparent manner
Mr Mazala observed that voters and some political players are usually found in conflict with the law because they try to take the law into their own hands.
He has therefore asked all voters not to intervene with police operations.
And, Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD) Provincial Secretary, Kelvin Sipalo, said elections are a prime base on which democracy is anchored and called for peaceful by- elections.
The Electoral Commission of Zambia is set to conduct three by- elections in Western Province, with two being in Mongu District in Nalikwanda Constituency and one in Senanga District.
When will be the training for the poll staff