Presidential ballot paper printing completed in Dubai

LUSAKA – The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has announced the successful completion of the printing of presidential ballot papers in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, marking a significant milestone in the nation's preparations for the forthcoming general elections. A total of 9.1 million ballot papers, meticulously produced by a Dubai-based printing company, are now ready for shipment to Zambia, ensuring that every registered voter will have the opportunity to participate in the democratic process. This development comes amidst heightened anticipation and scrutiny surrounding the electoral preparations. The decision to print ballot papers abroad has historically been a subject of debate in Zambia, with arguments often centering on transparency, cost-effectiveness, and security. The ECZ has consistently defended its choice, citing the need for specialized printing capabilities, stringent security protocols, and the capacity to meet tight deadlines that may not always be readily available domestically. The completion of this phase is crucial, as it lays the physical groundwork for the election, moving the country closer to polling day. The logistical challenge of securely transporting 9.1 million ballot papers across international borders and then distributing them to over 12,000 polling stations nationwide is immense. The ECZ, in collaboration with various stakeholders, including political parties and civil society organizations, is expected to outline a comprehensive plan for the secure handling, transportation, and storage of these sensitive materials. Ensuring the integrity of the ballot papers from the printing press to the ballot box is paramount to maintaining public confidence in the electoral outcome. Beyond the presidential ballot papers, the ECZ is also overseeing the printing of ballot papers for parliamentary and local government elections, which are typically conducted concurrently. The timely completion of all these printing exercises is critical t