ECZ defends HH nomination, asks court to dismiss petition

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has defended the nomination of President Hakainde Hichilema and Vice-President Mutale Nalumango, arguing before the Constitutional Court that the presidential ticket satisfied all constitutional and legal requirements during the nomination process.

The Commission has asked the court to dismiss a petition filed by Charles Longwe, who is challenging President Hichilema’s eligibility to stand in the August 13 general election.

According to court documents referenced in newspaper reports, ECZ maintains that all procedures prescribed under the Constitution and electoral laws were followed during the nomination exercise and that there was no basis for invalidating the President’s candidature.

The matter has emerged as one of the most prominent legal disputes of the election period because it concerns the presidential ballot and the eligibility of a sitting Head of State seeking re-election.

ECZ’s response places the nomination process itself at the centre of the proceedings.

The Commission argues that the nomination of President Hichilema and running mate Nalumango complied with the legal framework governing presidential elections and that all relevant requirements were met at the time nomination papers were submitted and accepted.

The petition by Longwe seeks judicial intervention regarding the validity of the nomination process and has drawn attention from political parties, legal practitioners and election stakeholders because of its potential implications for the presidential race.

Court proceedings relating to candidate eligibility have become a recurring feature of Zambia’s electoral landscape, particularly during nomination periods when disputes arise over constitutional interpretation and procedural compliance.

In this case, ECZ has taken the position that the nomination process was conducted lawfully and in accordance with established electoral procedures.

The Commission’s defence is expected to form a key part of the court’s consideration of the matter.

The challenge comes at a time when political parties are intensifying campaign activities ahead of polling day.

President Hichilema, who is seeking another term in office, remains the presidential candidate of the United Party for National Development (UPND).

The ruling party is expected to formally launch its election manifesto today as it seeks to secure another mandate from voters.

The Constitutional Court proceedings are unfolding alongside a series of other election-related petitions involving nominations, candidate eligibility and constitutional interpretation.

Several matters concerning parliamentary and independent candidates have also been brought before the courts in recent weeks, reflecting the increasingly active role of judicial institutions in resolving electoral disputes.

While the outcome of the case remains in the hands of the court, ECZ’s response makes clear that the electoral body intends to vigorously defend the nomination process conducted during this year’s presidential nominations.

The Commission maintains that its actions were consistent with the law and that there are no grounds to interfere with the candidature of President Hichilema and Vice-President Nalumango.

The Constitutional Court is expected to determine whether the petition raises issues requiring further intervention or whether ECZ’s position should prevail.

The decision is likely to be closely followed because it concerns the nomination of the incumbent President and could shape legal discussions surrounding electoral procedures ahead of the August 13 general election.

For now, ECZ remains firm that the presidential ticket met all constitutional requirements and that the nomination process was conducted in accordance with the law.