Info
Disclaimer: This section of Comparative Data is not being updated.
Users should be aware that data may be inaccurate. If you find inaccuracies please
contact the ACE facilitators .
Boundary Delimitation
BD001
Delimitation of constituencies
Question: Are constituencies delimited for election purposes?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: (1) Zambia shall be divided into constituencies and wards
for purposes of elections to the National Assembly and councils,
respectively.
(2) The number of constituencies shall be equal to the number
of seats of elected members in the National Assembly.
Source: Constitution: Constitution of Zambia, art. 58 (1) & (2)
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/amendment_act/Constitution%20of%20Zambia%20%20%28Amendment%29,%202016-Act%20No.%202_0.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
BD003
Criteria for drawing boundaries
Question: On what criteria are the boundaries drawn?
Answer(s):
a . "Equality" of population b . Respecting natural barriers e . Geographic size of district g . Other
Comments: The Electoral Commission shall, in delimiting the boundaries
of constituencies and wards—
(a)
take into account the history, diversity and cohesiveness
of the constituency or ward;
(b)
have regard to population density, trends and projections;
(c)
ensure that the number of inhabitants in each constituency
or ward is reasonable, taking into account the means of
communication and geographical features;
(d)
ensure that constituencies and wards are wholly within
districts; and
(e)
seek to achieve an approximate equality of constituency
and ward population, subject to the need to ensure
adequate representation for urban and sparsely populated
areas.
Source: Constitution: Constitution of Zambia, art. 59
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/amendment_act/Constitution%20of%20Zambia%20%20%28Amendment%29,%202016-Act%20No.%202_0.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
BD005
Body responsible for drawing boundaries
Question: The body responsible for drawing the boundaries is:
Answer(s):
e . Electoral Management Body (EMB)
Comments: (4) The Electoral Commission shall determine the names and
boundaries of constituencies and wards.
Source: Constitution: Constitution of Zambia, art. 58 (4)
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/amendment_act/Constitution%20of%20Zambia%20%20%28Amendment%29,%202016-Act%20No.%202_0.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
Electoral Systems
ES001
Head of State
Question: How is the Head of State selected?
Answer(s):
a . Head of State is the Head of Government b . Directly elected in general elections (simple majority)
Comments: Elections to the office of President shall be conducted
directly, under a majoritarian electoral system, where the winning
candidate must receive more than fifty percent of the valid votes
cast, and in accordance with Article 101
There shall be a President of the Republic who shall be the Head of State and Government and Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Force.
Source: Constitution: Constitution of Zambia, art. 47 & 91 (1)
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/amendment_act/Constitution%20of%20Zambia%20%20(Amendment),%202016-Act%20No.%202_0.pdf
Verified: 2016/06/28
ES002
Head of Government
Question: How is the Head of Government selected?
Answer:
a . Directly elected in general elections (simple majority)
Comments: Elections to the office of President shall be conducted
directly, under a majoritarian electoral system, where the winning
candidate must receive more than fifty percent of the valid votes
cast
Source: Constitution: Constitution of Zambia, art. 47 & 91 (1)
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/amendment_act/Constitution%20of%20Zambia%20%20(Amendment),%202016-Act%20No.%202_0.pdf
Verified: 2016/06/28
ES003
President
Question: Does the country have a president?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The President is both the Head of State and the Head of Government.
Source: Constitution: Constitution of Zambia, art. 47 & 91 (1)
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/amendment_act/Constitution%20of%20Zambia%20%20(Amendment),%202016-Act%20No.%202_0.pdf
Verified: 2016/06/28
ES004
Number of Chambers
Question: The national legislature consists of (one/two chambers):
Answer:
a . One chamber
Comments: The legislative authority of the Republic derives from the people of Zambia and shall be exercised in a manner that protects this Constitution and promotes the democratic governance of the Republic. There is established the Parliament of Zambia which consists of the President and the National Assembly.
Source: Constitution: Constitution of Zambia, art. 61 & 62
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/amendment_act/Constitution%20of%20Zambia%20%20(Amendment),%202016-Act%20No.%202_0.pdf
Verified: 2016/06/28
ES005
Electoral System (Chamber 1)
Question: What is the electoral system for Chamber 1 of the national legislature?
Answer(s):
a . Plurality (FPTP)
Comments: The National Assembly shall consist of one hundred and fifty-six members directly elected on the basis of a simple majority vote under the first-pastthe-post system;
Source: Constitution: Constitution of Zambia, art. 68 (2)
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/amendment_act/Constitution%20of%20Zambia%20%20(Amendment),%202016-Act%20No.%202_0.pdf
Verified: 2016/06/28
Legislative Framework
LF001
Status of Electoral Law
Question: What is the status of the electoral law governing national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Part of Constitution b . Separate legislation d . Regulations or administrative rules
Comments: Key legislation governing elections are: Constitution of Zambia. Electoral Act. Referendum Act. Electoral Commission Act & Electoral (Conduct) Regulations.
Source: Electoral Acts Zambia
http://www.elections.org.zm/media/electoral_acts.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
LF002
Question: What is the date of the latest version of the national electoral law (including latest amendments)?
Answer:
a . January 2000 or later
Comments: The Electoral Act No. 12 of 2006;
The Electoral General Regulations S.I. 92 of 2006;
The Local Government Elections (Amendment) No. 2, S.I. No 96 of 2006.
Source: The Zambian Electoral Act
Verified: 2007/11/09
LF003
Electoral Law covers
Question: The national electoral law covers:
Answer(s):
a . National elections c . Local elections
Comments: An Act to provide for a comprehensive process for elections to the office of President and to the National Assembly.
Source: http://www.elections.org.zm/media/electoral__act_2006.pdf(2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
LF004
Compulsory/voluntary voting
Question: Is voting on the national level voluntary or compulsory?
Answer(s):
a . Voting is voluntary
Comments: A citizen who has attained the age of eighteen years is entitled
to be registered as a voter and vote in an election by secret ballot.
Source: Constitution: art. 46
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/amendment_act/Constitution%20of%20Zambia%20%20%28Amendment%29,%202016-Act%20No.%202_0.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
LF007
Electoral Disputes Agency(ies)
Question: What are the agency(ies) responsible for the first level of formal electoral disputes?
Answer(s):
b . EMB
Comments: Whenever the Commission, the Director of E
lections, an election officer or any person is required under this Act to decide an objection, dispute, complaint or an appeal, the Commission or that person may attempt to resolve the issue, that is the subject of the objection, dispute, complaint or appeal, through conciliation or mediation.
The Commission shall, for purposes of resolving electoral
disputes, constitute such number of conflict management
committees as the Commission may determine.
Source: Electoral Law: Electoral Act, art. 110 & 111.
http://www.elections.org.zm/media/electoral__act_2006.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
Electoral Management
EM002
Responsibility of national EMB
Question: Does the national electoral body have the responsibility for elections at:
Answer(s):
a . National level c . Local level
Comments:
Source: Constitution: Constitution of Zambia, art. 229.
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/amendment_act/Constitution%20of%20Zambia%20%20%28Amendment%29,%202016-Act%20No.%202_0.pdf (2016)
Electoral Law: http://www.elections.org.zm/media/electoral__act_2006.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
EM004
EMB budget determined by
Question: The budget of the national electoral management body is determined by:
Answer(s):
a . The President c . The legislature f . Donors
Comments: 13. (1) The funds of the Commission shall consist of such moneys as may-
(a)be appropriated by Parliament for the purposes of the Commission;
(b be paid to the Commission by way of grants or donations; and
(c)vest in or accrue to the Commission.
(2) The Commission may-
(a) subject to the approval of the President, accept moneys by way of grants or
donations from any source; and
(b) subject to the approval of the President, raise by way of loans or otherwise,
such moneys as it may require for the discharge of its functions.
Source: Electoral Law: Electoral Commission Act 1996, art. 13.
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/acts/Electoral%20Commission%20Act.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
EM005
EMB expenditures controlled by
Question: The expenditures of the national electoral management body are controlled by:
Answer(s):
a . The President c . The legislature
Comments: As soon as is practicable, but not later than ninety days after the end of the financial year,the Commission shall submit to the President a report concerning its activities during the financial year.
The President shall, not later than seven days after the first sitting of the National Assembly next after receipt of the report, cause the report to be laid before the National Assembly.
Source: Electoral Law: Electoral Commission Act, art. 16.
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/acts/Electoral%20Commission%20Act.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
EM006
Term of EMB members
Question: The term of the members of the national electoral management body is:
Answer:
b . For a specified number of years
Comments: Commissioners are appointed for a term of office not exceeding seven years. Their terms may be renewed, but renewals require the ratification of the National Assembly.
Provided that the first members shall be appointed for periods ranging from two to five years in order to facilitate retirement by rotation.
Source: Electoral Law: Electoral Commission Act, art. 5.
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/acts/Electoral%20Commission%20Act.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
EM012
Electoral Management model
Question: What is the Electoral Management model?
Answer:
b . Independent
Comments:
Source: Electoral Management Design: The International IDEA Handbook (2006)(http://www.idea.int/publications/emd/upload/EMD_Annex_A.pdf) (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
EM013
Number of EMB members
Question: The EMB is composed of:
Answer:
a . 1 - 10 members (specify)
Comments: The Electoral Commission consists of a Chair and not more than four other members.
Source: Electoral Law: Electoral Commission Act, art. 4.
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/acts/Electoral%20Commission%20Act.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
EM014
Membership based on
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected on the basis of their:
Answer:
b . Expertise
Comments: The Chairperson shall be a person who has held, or is qualified to hold, high judicial office or, any other suitably qualified person.
Source: Electoral Law: Electoral Commission Act, art. 4.
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/acts/Electoral%20Commission%20Act.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
EM015
Question: The EMB members/commissioners are selected by:
Answer(s):
a . Head of State
Comments: The members of the Commission shall be appointed by the President, subject to ratification by the National Assembly.
Source: Electoral Law: Electoral Commission Act, art. 4.
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/acts/Electoral%20Commission%20Act.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
Voter Education
VE001
Information campaigns performed by
Question: Who conducts information campaigns for national elections (informing where, when and how to register and/or vote)?
Answer(s):
a . National Electoral Management Body g . NGOs/ Civic Organizations i . Media j . Religious Institutions
Comments: Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) is tasked by law with voter and civic education; private instances are permitted to, providing they are impartial and independent of political parties and that they promote conditions for free and fair elections
Source: Electoral Law: Electoral Act, art. 77 & 78.
http://www.elections.org.zm/media/electoral__act_2006.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
VE002
Frequency of voter education programs
Question: At the national level, how often are voter education programs conducted?
Answer:
d . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/06/28
VE003
National civic education
Question: Is there a national civic education campaign (rights and responsibilities of citizens)?
Answer(s):
b . Yes, conducted by the National Electoral Management Body h . Yes, conducted by NGOs/ Civic Organizations l . Other
Comments: l. Any natural or juristic person providing voter education shall do so in a manner—
(a) that is impartial and independent of any registered party or candidate contesting an election; and
(b) that shall promote conditions conducive to free and fair election.
Source: Electoral Law: Electoral Act, art. 78.
http://www.elections.org.zm/media/electoral__act_2006.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
VE004
Question: What types of voter education activities were carried out at the most recent national elections?
Answer(s):
e . Public meetings
Comments: Community visits by Voter Education facilitators
Source: Electoral Commission of Zambia
Verified: 2007/11/09
Voter Registration
VR001
Voting age
Question: What is the legal voting age in the national elections?
Answer:
c . 18
Comments: 46.A citizen who has attained the age of eighteen years is entitled
to be registered as a voter and vote in an election by secret ballot.
Source: Constitution: Constitution of Zambia, art. 46
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/amendment_act/Constitution%20of%20Zambia%20%20%28Amendment%29,%202016-Act%20No.%202_0.pdf
Verified: 2022/01/18
VR002
Other voting requirements
Question: Beyond age, what other qualifications exist for registering to vote and voting in the national elections?
Answer(s):
a . Citizenship e . Other
Comments: Subject to the provisions of section seven, every person shall be qualified for registration as a voter in direct elections who—
(a) is a citizen of Zambia;
(b) has attained the age of eighteen years; and
(c) is in possession of a national registration card.
Source: Electoral Law: Electoral Act, art. 5 & 7.
http://www.elections.org.zm/media/electoral__act_2006.pdf (2016)
https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/ZM/zambia-constitution-amendment-act-nb02-of-2016/view
Verified: 2022/01/18
VR004
Authority responsible for voter registration
Question: Which is the authority responsible for the registration of voters for national elections?
Answer:
d . Election Management Body (specify)
Comments: 4. (1) The Commission shall compile and maintain a
voters’ roll in the manner and style prescribed by the Commission.
(2) The Commission shall compile, maintain and update on a continuing basis, a register of voters, which shall include the
names of all persons entitle to vote In any election under this
Act, local government election under the Local Government
Elections Act or referendum under the Referendum Act
Source: Electoral Act of Zambia, art. 4.
http://www.elections.org.zm/media/electoral__act_2006.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
VR006
Question: How frequently is the voters register updated?
Answer:
a . Continuously
Comments: Continuous Voter Registration started in April 2007
Source: Zambian Electoral Commission, 2007-11-09
Verified: 2007/11/09
VR008
Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Question: Is it compulsory to be on the voters register?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments: The Commission shall compile, maintain and update on a
continuing basis, a register of voters, which shall include the
names of all persons entitle to vote In any election under this
Act, local government election under the Local Government
Elections Act or referendum under the Referendum Act.
Source: Electoral Act of Zambia, art. 4 (2)
http://www.elections.org.zm/media/electoral__act_2006.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/04/01
Parties and Candidates
PC001
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments: The registration of political parties is the responsibility of the Registrar of Societies.
In terms of conditions for establishment of political parties, the Societies Act provides that within 28 days of its formation or adoption, a society (in this case political party) should make an application to the register of societies for registration. It also requires the society to have headquarters in Zambia and at least one of its office-bearers must reside in Zambia.
Source: "Chapter 14: Zambia" Compendium of Elections in Southern Africa 1989-2009: 20 Years of Multiparty Democracy, EISA, Johannesburg, 587.
http://aceproject.org/epic-es/CDCountry?topic=PC&country=ZM (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
PC002
Registration requirements for parties (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the registration requirements for political parties running for national elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
g . No information available
Comments: Zambia has a unicameral system.
Source: Constitution of Zambia 1996, Articles 34(8), 62 and 63.
Verified: 2007/10/12
PC003
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 1)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 1)?
Answer(s):
a . Age b . Citizenship f . Registration i . Minimum level of literacy j . Other
Comments: 70.
(1)Subject to clause (2), a person is eligible to be elected
as a Member of Parliament, if that person—
(a)is a citizen;
(b)is at least twenty-one years old;
(c)is a registered voter;
(d)has obtained, as a minimum academic qualification, a grade
twelve certificate or its equivalent; and
(e)declares that person’s assets and liabilities, as prescribed.
Source: Constitution: Constitution of Zambia, art. 70.
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/amendment_act/Constitution%20of%20Zambia%20%20%28Amendment%29,%202016-Act%20No.%202_0.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
PC004
Registration requirements for candidates (Chamber 2)
Question: What are the legal qualifications to become a candidate at legislative elections (Chamber 2)?
Answer(s):
k . No information available
Comments: Zambia has a unicameral system.
Source: Constitution of Zambia 1996, Articles 34(8), 62 and 63.
Verified: 2007/10/12
PC008
Independent candidates
Question: Can independent candidates compete in presidential or legislative elections?
Answer(s):
c . In legislative elections (Chamber 1)
Comments: A person is eligible for election as an independent
candidate for a National Assembly seat if the person—
(a) is not a member of a political party and has not been a
member of a political party for at least two months
immediately before the date of the election;and
(b) meets the qualifications specified in Article 70 for election
as a Member of Parliament.
Source: http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/amendment_act/Constitution%20of%20Zambia%20%20%28Amendment%29,%202016-Act%20No.%202_0.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
PC011
Question: If independent candidates can compete in presidential elections, what are the registration requirements?
Answer(s):
b . Deposit requirement (specify)
Comments: ZMK 20 million
Source: Constitution Article 34; Statutory instrument No. 86 of 2006
Verified: 2007/11/09
PC012
Public funding of parties
Question: Do political parties receive direct/indirect public funding?
Answer(s):
b . Direct
Comments: 60.(4) The following shall be prescribed with regard to political parties:
(a) the establishment and management of a Political Parties’Fund to provide financial support to political parties with seats in the National Assembly;
(b)the accounts of political parties which are funded under
the Political Parties’ Fund and the submission of audited
accounts by political parties;
(c)the sources of funds for political parties;
(d)the maximum amount of money to be used for campaigns
during elections
Source: Constitution of Zambia: art. 60. (4)
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/amendment_act/Constitution%20of%20Zambia%20%20%28Amendment%29,%202016-Act%20No.%202_0.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
PC015
Question: What is the basis of the public funding?
Answer(s):
c . Based on current legislative representation
Comments: 60. (4) The following shall be prescribed with regard to political
parties:
(a)the establishment and management of a Political Parties’
Fund to provide financial support to political parties with
seats in the National Assembly;
Source: Constitution of Zambia: art. 60. (4)
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/amendment_act/Constitution%20of%20Zambia%20%20%28Amendment%29,%202016-Act%20No.%202_0.pdf
Verified: 2016/06/28
PC017
Question: Are political parties entitled to private funding?
Answer:
c . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/06/28
Vote Counting
VC004
Votes are sorted/counted at
Question: Following the close of the voting, where are the votes first sorted and counted?
Answer:
a . The polling stations
Comments: 66. (1) Votes shall be counted at the polling stati
on at which those votes were cast, except when in the interest of ensuring a free and fair election, the Commission, after consultation with the contesting parties or their agents, determines that those votes be counted at another counting venue.
Source: Electoral Law: Electoral Act, art. 66
http://www.elections.org.zm/media/electoral__act_2006.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
VC008
Question: How are the initial/preliminary polling results transmitted and communicated to the different levels?
Answer(s):
a . Physically transported c . By fax h . Other
Comments: Announced at the polling station
Source: Electoral Commission of Zambia
Verified: 2009/11/04
VC011
When are ballots recounted?
Question: Under what conditions are ballots recounted?
Answer(s):
d . By request e . Court order
Comments: An election or polling agent of a candidate may object to a count and the counting assistant may determine whether or not to recount the ballots.
Source: Electoral Law: Electoral Act, art. 69 & 102
http://www.elections.org.zm/media/electoral__act_2006.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
Media and Elections
ME037
Criteria for allocating free broadcast time
Question: What are the criteria for allocating free broadcast time and/or free printed advertisement space to political parties?
Answer(s):
a . Equal regardless of size of party and previous performance
Comments: All public television and radio broadcasters shall allocate public air time equally to all political parties for their political broadcasts.
Source: Electoral Law: Electoral (Code of Conduct) Regulations, art. 14.
http://www.elections.org.zm/media/electoral_code_of_conduct_2011.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
ME059
Television debates
Question: Are televised debates between candidates or party representatives normally conducted?
Answer(s):
d . No information available
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2016/06/28
ME062
Blackout period for release of opinion poll results.
Question: What is the blackout period, if any, during which results of pre-election opinion polls may not be released to the public?
Answer:
g . No information available
Comments: Television may not broadcast opinion poll results or
predictions of the result on polling day until the polls have closed. Broadcasters must reveal the sources of opinion polls and indicate the margins of error.
Source: Electoral Law: Electoral (Code of Conduct) Regulations, art. 4 & 13.
www.elections.org.zm/media/electoral_code_of_conduct_2011.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
ME080
Question: Is there a maximum amount that a political party is permitted to spend on paid advertising during a campaign period?
Answer:
c . No information available
Comments: A political party or candidate shall not buy more than thirty minutes air time in any given language on public television or radio in any one week
Source: Electoral Law: Electoral (Code of Conduct) Regulations, art. 14 (2)
www.elections.org.zm/media/electoral_code_of_conduct_2011.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
Direct Democracy
DD002
Direct Democracy Provisions (National Level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy Procedures at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: Referendum Act (Chapter 14).
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/acts/Referendum%20Act.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
DD003
Mandatory referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Mandatory Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
a . Yes
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: Referendum Act (Chapter 14).
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/acts/Referendum%20Act.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
DD004
Optional referendums (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Optional Referendums at the national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: Referendum Act (Chapter 14).
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/acts/Referendum%20Act.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
DD005
Citizens' Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Citizen’s Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: Referendum Act (Chapter 14).
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/acts/Referendum%20Act.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
DD006
Agenda Initiatives (national level)
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Agenda Initiatives at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: Referendum Act (Chapter 14).
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/acts/Referendum%20Act.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
DD007
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Recalls at national level?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: Referendum Act (Chapter 14).
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/acts/Referendum%20Act.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
DD008
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for mandatory referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional b . Specific laws/legislation
Comments: a) The Constitution of Zambia.
b) The 1967 Referendum Act.
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD009
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for optional referendums at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD010
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for citizens' initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD011
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for agenda initiatives at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD012
Question: What is the legal basis for the administrative requirements for recalls at the national level? Tick as appropriate and specify the relevant constitutional, legal or regulatory provisions below.
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD015
Question: Who is responsible for managing the administration of direct democracy mechanisms at the national level?
Answer(s):
e . Other (specify who)
Comments: "[...] there is hereby established a Referendum Commission (thereinafter in this Act referred to as "the Commission") for the purpose of supervising the conduct of any referendum held pursuant to section two)"
Source: The 1967 Referendum Act
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD016
Question: Does this agency/department also manage the administration of national elections?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD017
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
a . Yes, in all regions/states/provinces
Comments:
Source: The 1967 Referendum Act
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD018
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD019
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD020
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD021
Question: Are recalls currently possible at first tier (regions/states/provinces, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD022
Question: Are mandatory referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD023
Question: Are optional referendums currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD024
Question: Are citizens' initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD025
Question: Are agenda initiatives currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD026
Question: Are recalls currently possible at local (municipalities/districts/communes, etc) authority level?
Answer:
c . No
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD027
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are mandatory at the national level?
Answer(s):
a . Constitutional amendments
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD028
Question: What are the issues, if any, in relation to which referendums are optional at the national level?
Answer(s):
k . None
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD029
Question: Which issues, if any, are excluded from being the subject of referendums at the national level?
Answer(s):
b . Adoption of international treaties c . Transfer of authority to international bodies d . National sovereignty, national self-determination e . Conflict between constitutional organs f . Devolution g . Civil service h . Taxes and public expenditure commitments i . Other public policy issues
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD030
Question: Which issues, if any, maybe the subject of sub-national referendums regulated at the national level?
Answer(s):
e . None
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD031
Question: Who can initiate a referendum at the national level?
Answer(s):
c . President
Comments: "The President may, if in his opinion it is necessary or desirable so to do by statuary order direct that a referendum be held on any questions specified in the order."
Source: The 1967 Referendum Act
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD032
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the mandatory referendum question?
Answer(s):
f . Other (specify who)
Comments: f) The Referendum Commission.
Source: The 1967 Referendum Act
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD033
Question: Who is responsible for drafting the optional referendum question?
Answer(s):
g . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD036
Question: Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for mandatory referendums?
Answer(s):
e . Other (specify who)
Comments: e) The Referendum Commission
Source: The 1967 Referendum Act
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD037
Question: Which institution(s) decides on the final form of the ballot text for optional referendums?
Answer(s):
f . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD040
Question: What are the requirements for mandatory referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
a . Simple majority (>50%)
Comments:
Source: The 1967 Referendum Act
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD041
Question: What are the requirements for optional referendums to pass?
Answer(s):
e . Not applicable
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD042
Question: In which areas, if any, do regulatory provisions differ between a referendum and a national election? Tick all that apply and specify below in the comments section.
Answer(s):
f . Other
Comments:
Source:
Verified: 2006/10/16
DD129
Question: Are the results of referenda always binding, never binding or sometimes binding?
Answer:
a . Always binding
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: Referendum Act (Chapter 14).
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/acts/Referendum%20Act.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
DD130
Question: Are the types of issues to vote upon in a referendum constitutional changes only, other issues only or both constitutional and other issues?
Answer:
a . Constitutional changes only
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: Referendum Act (Chapter 14).
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/acts/Referendum%20Act.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
DD131
Question: Are there any Legal Provisions for Direct Democracy at sub-national levels (regional or local)?
Answer:
b . No
Comments:
Source: Electoral Law: Referendum Act (Chapter 14).
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/acts/Referendum%20Act.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
DD132
Year of introducing Direct Democracy
Question: What year were the first Direct Democracy mechanisms introduced to the legal framework?
Answer:
e . 1961-1980
Comments: 1967
Source:
Verified: 2009/08/12
DD133
Question: What year was the first referendum/initiative held?
Answer:
e . 1961-1980
Comments: 1965
Source:
Verified: 2009/08/12
Voting Operations
VO003
Electors vote at
Question: Where can electors vote?
Answer(s):
a . At a specified polling station in the locality where they are registered at national elections j . Other
Comments: A special vote may be cast if a person cannot vote at a polling station due to physical infirmity or disability or pregnancy or absence from that polling district while serving as an officer or monitor in the election
concerned, or while on duty as a member of the security services in connection with the election.
Source: Electoral Law: Electoral Act 2006, art. 24 & 59.
http://www.elections.org.zm/media/electoral__act_2006.pdf (2016)
Verified: 2016/06/28
VO004
Voting outside the country is permitted for
Question: Who can vote from outside the country?
Answer(s):
h . No information available
Comments: The law makes no provision for voting outside the country.
Source:
Verified: 2016/06/28
VO011
Voting method
Question: How do electors cast their votes?
Answer(s):
a . Manually marking of ballots
Comments: Once the voter has received a ballot paper,the voter shall — mark the ballot paper in a way that indicates the candidate the voter wishes to vote for.
Source: Electoral Law: Electoral Act, art. 59
http://www.elections.org.zm/media/electoral__act_2006.pdf
Verified: 2016/06/28
Forgot your password?
