Don’t be used as tools of violence, ECZ advises youths

The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has issued a stern warning to young people across the country, urging them not to allow themselves to be exploited as tools for political violence by selfish actors. As political parties gear up for localized electoral contests, including the crucial Mandevu by-election, electoral authorities have expressed deep concern over the historical vulnerability of youths to manipulation, intimidation, and electoral malpractice. Speaking during a youth sensitization conference held over the weekend, Acting District Electoral Officer Victor Kagoli implored young citizens to steer clear of conflicts, hate speech, and acts of aggression. Mr. Kagoli stressed that while young people represent the most energetic and vibrant demographic in Zambian society, that very energy must be guarded against being subverted into an instrument of democratic decay. The Commission underscored its vision of building a cadre of informed, enthusiastic young leaders who can champion peace and educate their peers on the tenets of electoral laws and civic responsibility. Political violence has long remained a dark stain on Zambia’s electoral landscape, frequently disrupting the democratic process and resulting in preventable injuries and destruction of property. Despite numerous legislative and administrative interventions by both state bodies and civil society organizations, political cadres—predominantly jobless youths—are often hired or incited by unscrupulous politicians to disrupt opponent rallies or intimidate voters. Civil society organizations have continuously echoed the ECZ's sentiments, pointing out that while political elites enjoy protection and camaraderie behind closed doors, it is ordinary youths who face arrest, injury, or worse on the streets. In response to these perennial challenges, the ECZ has reiterated that the Electoral Code of Conduct applies strictly to all participating political players without exception. The electoral body has c