ZAFOD Calls for Inclusive Poll Staff Recruitments

The Zambia Federation of Disability Organizations has called on the Electoral Commission of Zambia to take urgent steps to ensure qualified persons with disabilities are fairly considered in the ongoing recruitment of poll staff for the 2026 General Elections.

ZAFOD Elections Program Manager Annet Mwitumwa  says the organization is concerned by reports from across the country indicating that persons with disabilities have not been adequately included in the recruitment process.

Ms. Mwitumwa  says the participation of persons with disabilities in elections should extend beyond voting and contesting elective positions to include opportunities to serve as election officials and poll staff.

She says meaningful representation of persons with disabilities in electoral administration enhances accessibility, strengthens public confidence and promotes inclusive and credible elections.

Ms. Mwitumwa  notes that the reported exclusion is inconsistent with Zambia’s commitment to equal opportunities, affirmative action and the meaningful participation of persons with disabilities in public affairs.

She has called on the Electoral Commission of Zambia to engage District Electoral Officers, Human Resource coordinators and local authorities responsible for recruiting poll staff to ensure qualified persons with disabilities are given equitable consideration before the exercise is concluded.

Ms. Mwitumwa  has also urged local authorities to uphold the principles of equality and non-discrimination by ensuring that disability is not a barrier to employment in electoral administration.

She says the appeal is not for preferential treatment but for equal opportunities for qualified persons with disabilities to contribute meaningfully to the country’s electoral process.

Ms. Mwitumwa  has reaffirmed ZAFOD’s commitment to working with the Electoral Commission of Zambia, Government and other stakeholders to promote peaceful, credible, accessible and inclusive elections.