SADC Electoral Advisory Council begins pre‑election goodwill mission ahead of August polls

Africa, Politics

LUSAKA, Zambia (NPA) — The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Electoral Advisory Council (SEAC) has commenced a pre‑election goodwill assessment mission in the Republic of Zambia, engaging stakeholders ahead of the country’s General Election scheduled for 13 August 2026.

The mission is led by Ambassador Joseph Nourrice, SEAC Member representing the Republic of Seychelles, and Dr Leonard Sesa, SEAC Member representing the Republic of Botswana. They are supported by officers from the SADC Secretariat.

According to the Council, the team is holding consultations with a wide range of stakeholders, including Government, political parties, civil society, and individual experts on elections and democracy.

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The SEAC mission is being conducted in line with the SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections, which require the Council to undertake pre‑election assessments in member states preparing for national polls. These missions are designed to promote transparency, inclusivity, and adherence to democratic standards across the region.

The Council emphasised that the goodwill mission is not only about observing preparations but also about encouraging dialogue and cooperation among stakeholders to ensure credible, peaceful, and democratic elections.

By engaging Zambia’s political actors and institutions, SEAC aims to strengthen confidence in the electoral process and reaffirm SADC’s commitment to supporting member states in upholding democratic values.