ECZ Speaks Out On Chilubi Malpractice

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has responded to claims that the PF government has hired the Chilubi ferry at Samfya Harbour for exclusive use by the ruling party between now and the by-election scheduled for February 13.

ECZ representative Royd Katongo has confirmed that the organisation is tackling the problem.

“I wish to inform you that the commission has engaged Zambia Postal Services (ZAMPOST), the owners of the ferry operating between Chilubi and the surrounding districts to make available the transport services to all stakeholders and the general public,” Katongo stated.

NDC Vice-President Joseph Akafumba, who submitted to complaint to the ECZ has argued that hire of the ferry amounts to electoral malpractice and abuse of office. It certainly seems unlikely that any opposition party would be able to secure such as arrangement. Reports suggest that the PF has also been buying off other means of transport in an apparent attempt to limit the opposition from campaigning in the area.

Akafumba urged the ECZ to intervene stating, “Sadly, our officials travelling to Chilubi Island, and currently at Samfya Harbour, have been told that government has hired the ferry for the next 20 days and that all private vehicles cannot be allowed to pass. Our officials and vehicles have been stuck at the harbour for two days now as they cannot cross over due to this.”

“As the name suggests, the Patriotic Front, PF, government knows that Chilubi is an island and there is no other way we can access the place but through this same harbour. So if our vehicles are not allowed to be ferried, then it means that we do not have access to Chilubi Island and no access to the elections,” he explained.

Northern Province UPND chair Nathan Ilunga has similarly claimed that the PF has booked out all the available lodges, despite many being empty, as well as the means of transport in the area, with the opposition limited to canoes only. However, the UPND has confirmed that their candidate is on the island awaiting nominations.

However, Northern Province Minister Bwalya Chungu dismissed the allegations.

The Chilubi by-election follows the death of the sitting MP, Rosaria Fundanga.