13 August 2026 | Source: Library Development Foundation (LDF) Monitors/Observers Team
Zambia 2026 elections were conducted peacefully in the areas visited by the Library Development Foundation’s Monitors and Observers Team, with no incidents of violence recorded, according to an election-day report issued by the organisation.
The LDF assessment points to a generally smooth and orderly voting process, although participation varied between communities. Across the locations covered by the team, national turnout was characterised as low to moderate rather than uniformly strong.
Lusaka Records Mixed Turnout
In Lusaka, observers reported a mixed pattern. Average turnout was moderate, with some polling areas recording higher numbers while others remained quiet. Voting at most of the locations monitored closed at 18:00hrs.
The findings build on LDF’s earlier election-day update from Lusaka, which described calm conditions and turnout that differed noticeably from one polling station to another.
Calm Conditions Reported in Other Provinces
Feedback received from outside the capital showed a similar picture. In Copperbelt Province, Kalulushi and Chambeshi recorded low turnout, but the environment remained calm. In Western Province, Mwandi also experienced low turnout in a peaceful setting.
Despite the uneven participation levels, LDF observers said the process in the areas they covered remained smooth and orderly. No violence was recorded by the team during its monitoring activity.
Ballot Counting Underway
Counting of ballots was underway on Thursday evening. Results for most parliamentary, mayoral, council chairperson and councillor contests were expected to be announced by 14 August 2026.
The counting phase follows the close of voting, including at stations affected by delayed openings. The Electoral Commission of Zambia earlier extended voting hours for late-opening polling stations so that affected voters could cast their ballots.
As the country awaits official declarations, readers can follow updates from the ECZ National Election Results Centre and other verified election coverage from The Zambian Economist.
Scope of the Observation
LDF stressed that its report is based only on the polling areas visited by its Monitors and Observers Team. The findings should therefore not be interpreted as a comprehensive nationwide assessment of voter turnout or the electoral environment.
Source: Library Development Foundation (LDF) Monitors/Observers Team.
Related Election Coverage
- LDF Observers Report Calm Voting in Lusaka, Turnout Growing at Some Polling Stations
- Voting Closes, ECZ Extends Hours for Late-Opening Stations
- Hichilema Thanks Voters, Urges Patience as Zambia Awaits Official Results
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