NGOCC Raises Alarm Over Rising Political Violence at Nomination Centres

By Alain Kabinda

Growing incidents of intimidation and political violence at nomination centres have triggered fresh concern among civil society organisations, with the Non-governmental Gender Organisations’ Coordinating Council warning that such acts threaten both Zambia’s democratic process and women’s participation in politics.

As political activity intensifies ahead of Zambia’s elections, NGOCC says recent events witnessed during the filing of nominations reveal a disturbing pattern of hostility, intimidation, and disorder that could discourage citizens — particularly women — from seeking public office.

In a strongly worded statement issued by Board Chairperson Beauty Katebe, the organisation condemned violent incidents reported at selected nomination centres across the country.

                                               (NGOCC Board Chairperson Beauty Katebe)

Of particular concern was the situation at the nomination centre in Mandevu involving aspiring candidate Jean Kapata.

And according Ms. Kapata  stated that they was forced to employ extraordinary measures to navigate what the organisation described as a hostile environment created by unruly groups during the nomination process.

For women’s rights advocates, the incident represents more than an isolated political confrontation. It reflects the broader challenge of Violence Against Women in Elections (VAWE), a long-standing issue that continues to hinder women’s participation in Zambia’s political space.

Civil society groups say many women aspiring for political office often face threats, verbal abuse, intimidation, and physical hostility that discourage them from actively participating in governance and leadership.

She also expressed shock over the reported attack on former Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Garry Nkombo, which allegedly occurred in the presence of police officers.

The organisation acknowledged the difficult conditions under which the Zambia Police Service is operating but questioned why incidents of violence continue despite repeated public calls by national leaders condemning political violence.

“This culture of anarchy is unacceptable and must be nipped in the bud,” Ms Katebe said.

The concerns escalated further following reports from Choma, where individuals were allegedly gathering at a nomination centre threatening aspiring candidate Lungowe Sikwibele.

NGOCC warned that waiting for violence to occur before taking action risks undermining public confidence in the democratic process.

Political observers say nomination periods in Zambia have increasingly become tense moments where political rivalries spill into intimidation and confrontations. However, civil society organisations argue that allowing such behaviour to continue unchecked weakens democratic institutions and creates fear among ordinary citizens.

The organisation has since called on political parties, especially the ruling party, to respect the democratic rights of all citizens, including independent candidates.

Stakeholders also stressed the need for stronger cooperation between law enforcement agencies, political leaders, civil society organisations, faith groups, and the media in promoting peaceful participation during the electoral process.

For NGOCC and other democracy advocates, the issue goes beyond isolated incidents at nomination centres. It speaks to the larger question of whether Zambia can maintain peaceful, inclusive, and democratic elections where every citizen — regardless of gender or political affiliation — feels safe to participate.

As the country moves deeper into the election season, pressure is mounting on authorities to ensure that nomination centres and campaign activities remain free from violence, intimidation, and political hostility.

NGOCC says it will continue monitoring developments through its nationwide network across all ten provinces, insisting that safeguarding democracy also means protecting the voices, rights, and safety of women and all aspiring leaders.