Voter Card Scandal: TI-Z Alarms Over Alleged UPND Collection of Sensitive Details in Zambia

Transparency International Zambia (TI-Z) has publicly stated it has received numerous reports alleging that members of the United Party for National Development (UPND) have been engaged in collecting voters’ card numbers and National Registration Card (NRC) details from members of the public. These reports emanate from various districts across the country, including Luangeni in Eastern Province, Zambezi and Mwinilunga in North-Western Province, Mansa in Luapula Province, Monze in Southern Province, and Kasama in Northern Province, among other locations.

TI-Z Executive Director Maurice Nyambe confirmed that while the organization is actively monitoring and verifying these allegations, the reported practice has already sparked significant concern among citizens. The primary apprehension revolves around the true purpose for which this sensitive personal information is being collected by political actors.

Mr. Nyambe highlighted that the secrecy of the ballot is a fundamental pillar of democratic elections. He cautioned that any activity that creates even the perception that an individual's vote could be tracked, monitored, or linked to personal information collected by political parties has the severe potential to undermine and erode public confidence in the entire electoral process. Furthermore, the collection of such personal details during political campaigns raises critical issues concerning privacy, the necessity of informed consent, and the robust protection of citizens’ personal data.

In response to these concerns, TI-Z has issued a strong call to all political parties. The organization urges them to respect every citizen's fundamental right to vote freely and independently, without intimidation or undue influence. Political parties are implored to refrain from any practices that might intimidate voters or generate uncertainty regarding the confidentiality of their vote, thereby ensuring the integrity of the democratic exercise.

As Zambia approaches the final weeks before the August 13 general election, Maurice Nyambe also reminded all electoral stakeholders of the crucial commitments they voluntarily made during the 2025 Zambia Anti-Corruption Conference (ZACC). At this conference, various political parties, including the UPND, Citizens First, and the Patriotic Front (PF), alongside vital institutions such as the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) and the Human Rights Commission (HRC), collectively pledged to uphold principles of integrity and transparency throughout the electoral process.

TI-Z has reiterated that safeguarding the integrity of elections is a collective and shared responsibility. The organization has strongly urged all involved parties—political parties, civil society organizations, the media, the ECZ, state institutions, and individual citizens—to collaborate diligently. The goal is to work together harmoniously to ensure that the electoral process remains credible, transparent, and ultimately trusted by all stakeholders.