European Union Election Observation Mission Deploys Observers Across Zambia

Lusaka: The European Union Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) to Zambia has deployed 32 short-term observers throughout the country to monitor the proceedings of the general elections scheduled for 13 August.According to European Union, the short-term observers are set to enhance the efforts of 32 long-term observers who have been monitoring the electoral process across all ten provinces of Zambia. This team will be supported by a Core Team of 11 election experts based in Lusaka. In total, the Mission will involve approximately 100 observers, including members of the European Parliament and diplomats from EU Member States and Norway.Before their deployment, these short-term observers received comprehensive briefings in Lusaka, covering topics such as the legal framework, political context, election-day procedures, security, and the EU's standard election observation methodology.Deputy Chief Observer, Dr. Beata Martin-Rozumilowicz, emphasized the significance of this deployment, noting that the short- term observers will join their long-term counterparts to oversee election day procedures in both urban and rural areas. Their presence will ensure a thorough observation of the opening of polling stations, voting, counting, and the tabulation of results, contributing to the Mission's independent and impartial assessment of the electoral process.The EU EOM has been operational in Zambia since late June, following an official invitation from the Zambian authorities. The Mission is led by Chief Observer Michael McNamara, a Member of the European Parliament from Ireland. The observation covers all facets of the electoral process, including the legal framework, election administration, voter registration, campaign activities, campaign finance, media environment, and the participation of women, youth, and persons with disabilities.The EU observers adhere to a stringent Code of Conduct demanding neutrality, impartiality, and non-interference. The Mission follows the Declaration of Principles for International El ection Observation, endorsed by the United Nations in October 2005. The EU EOM's role is strictly observational, aiming to assess and report without interfering in the elections.A preliminary statement from the EU EOM is expected, with a press conference scheduled in Lusaka on 15 August, two days after the election day.