Zambia: Internet outages reported, heightened security measures likely through at least Aug. 20 following Aug. 12 general election /update 2

Event

Military forces are likely to remain deployed in all provinces nationwide following the nation's Aug. 12 general election and reports of politically motivated violence during the vote. In Solwezi, North West Province, a senior official of the ruling Patriotic Front (PF) was reportedly killed near a polling station. Another person was also reportedly killed in the province. The incident prompted incumbent President Edgar Lungu to order the army to increase its presence in Northwestern Province, as well as parts of the Southern and Western provinces. Supporters of rival parties clashed in the capital Lusaka, and Northern, Southern, and Muchinga provinces ahead of the vote.

In addition to the security deployment, internet outages continue to be reported nationwide as of Aug.13, following disruptions on voting day, with authorities blocking social media platforms. It is not clear how long the suspension will last.

Additional political gatherings and protests are possible following the announcement of the election results - scheduled Aug. 15 - especially if the results are deemed unfair. Sporadic clashes or other types of confrontations cannot be ruled out, particularly if supporters of rival political parties gather in proximity. Localized business and transport disruptions are likely near any demonstrations or political rally sites.

Context

During the polls, voters cast ballots for the president and members of the National Assembly. A total of 16 candidates competed in the presidential race, with incumbent President Edgar Lungu of the PF and Hakainde Hichilema of the United Party for National Development (UPND) being the frontrunners. The electoral process could extend beyond Aug. 12 if no presidential candidate receives at least 50 percent of the vote in the first round of the polls; such an outcome would force a second round of voting to take place at a later date.

Elections in Zambia have typically been largely peaceful, although some violent incidents have occurred. On June 15, the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) temporarily banned all campaigning by the PF and UPND in the Lusaka, Mpulungu, Namwala, and Nakonde districts due to political violence. It also prohibited all political roadshow convoys nationwide in an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19, limiting road campaigning events to no more than one vehicle equipped with a public address system. On June 28, the ECZ lifted the suspension on PF and UPND campaign activities in Mpulungu, Namwala, and Nakonde districts, citing satisfactory behavior by the two parties in those jurisdictions; however, the ban remains in effect in Lusaka district.

Advice

If operating in Zambia, exercise increased personal vigilance in the coming weeks. Avoid all demonstrations and election-related events as a precaution. Exercise caution near polling stations and counting centers. Keep away from areas where security personnel appear to be deploying. If clashes break out nearby, take shelter in a safe non-governmental building. Monitor trusted local news sources for developments. Heed all instructions from security personnel and allow extra time to reach destinations near rally locations.