By Sharon Siame
Government says it recognises the vital role credible elections play in promoting national unity and strengthening public confidence.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Permanent Secretary ETAMBUYU GUNDERSEN has called for the adoption of ICT-based methodologies in election observation processes to improve efficiency, accuracy, coordination and credibility.
Ms. GUNDERSEN was speaking in Lusaka during the official opening of a training programme for electoral stakeholders on the use of ICT-based methodologies for SADC Electoral Observation Missions.
She said the training is an important step towards strengthening democratic governance, enhancing electoral integrity and promoting peace, security and stability across the SADC region.
And representative of the Director of the SADC Organ Directorate on Politics, Defence and Security Affairs MAGABOLLE MAFIRI said the programme is designed to prepare observers for deployment to other SADC member states.
Meanwhile, SADC Electoral Advisory Council Deputy Chairperson KASUMPA KABALATA said the training aims to equip participants with the skills, knowledge and tools required to effectively observe general elections across the region.
