UN Slams 'Fake News' on Zambian Elections: No Observation Mandate!
The United Nations has clarified it holds no electoral observation mandate for Zambia's August 2026 elections, refuting false claims of endorsement or commentary on candidates or outcomes. The UN urges verification of information through official channels and calls for dialogue and peace during the electoral process.
The United Nations has issued a clear statement clarifying its position regarding the upcoming general elections in Zambia, scheduled for August 13, 2026. The international body explicitly states that it does not possess an electoral observation mandate in Zambia and, consequently, has not deployed any election observers for the said elections. This declaration comes in response to potential misinformation, with the UN firmly refuting any suggestions that it or its representatives have endorsed, congratulated, or commented on any specific candidate or the electoral outcome.
Ms. Beatrice Mutali, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in Zambia, elaborated on the UN's policy, stating, "The United Nations does not observe national electoral processes unless mandated by the General Assembly or the Security Council." She further emphasized that while the UN is committed to supporting Member States in strengthening their democratic institutions and encourages adherence to international obligations and commitments, it maintains a strict policy of not pronouncing itself on the validity of an electoral process or the legitimacy of electoral outcomes.
In light of these clarifications, the UN has strongly condemned the inappropriate and unlawful use of its emblems. It has urged the general public and media institutions to exercise caution and verify any information through official UN communication channels. This call aims to combat the spread of unverified content that could contribute to misinformation and disinformation during the electoral period.
Furthermore, the United Nations has underscored the critical importance of dialogue as a means to defuse any potential tensions that may arise. The organization has appealed to political leaders to uphold the commitments made in the political parties peace pledge. Concurrently, it has called upon their supporters to reject any form of violence and maintain calm while awaiting the official announcement of the election results.
For more detailed information or official inquiries, the public can contact the UN Resident Coordinator Office in Zambia via email at [email protected].