ECZ, stakeholders tour Al Ghurair printing company in Dubai

LUSAKA – The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has taken proactive steps to assure the nation of a transparent and credible electoral process, with its Vice Chairperson, Mr. Vincent Mukanda, leading a delegation to inspect the facilities of Al Ghurair Printing and Publishing Company in Dubai. This firm has been awarded the pivotal contract to print ballot papers for Zambia's highly anticipated August general elections. Mr. Mukanda conveyed the commission's optimism following the tour, indicating satisfaction with the printer's capabilities and commitment to delivering a secure and timely product. The delegation, which included representatives from various political parties, civil society organizations, and other key stakeholders, undertook the visit as part of ECZ's broader strategy to enhance transparency and build public confidence in the integrity of the electoral materials. This move comes against a backdrop of historical debates and concerns surrounding the printing of ballot papers, often a contentious issue in Zambian elections. By involving diverse stakeholders in the inspection process, the ECZ aims to pre-empt potential disputes and foster a shared understanding of the logistical and security protocols involved. Al Ghurair Printing and Publishing Company, a reputable firm with a track record in printing electoral materials for various countries, demonstrated its state-of-the-art facilities and stringent security measures to the Zambian delegation. These measures are critical to preventing tampering, ensuring accuracy, and safeguarding the confidentiality of the ballot papers before they are transported to Zambia. The ECZ's emphasis on transparency extends to the entire chain of custody, from printing to packaging, shipping, and eventual distribution across the country's ten provinces. For Zambia, a nation with a vibrant democratic tradition, the credibility of elections is paramount. The August polls are expected to be closely contested, making every