ZAMBIAN ELECTIONS AND THE CODE OF CONDUCT: A SHIELD AGAINST ELECTORAL VIOLENCE"

Abstract

Electoral violence has continued to be a hallmark of every election in Zambia despite the existence of a thorough electoral code of conduct. This study aims to explain why political parties in Zambia do not adhere to the electoral code of conduct and, consequently, resort to violence during elections. The research takes a historical research approach by conducting a document review of political party constitutions, the electoral code of conduct, electoral reports, and media reports. The study finds that political parties' lack of strong political structures, poor leadership, and ineffective implementation of electoral codes cause them to violate the electoral code of conduct during elections. The Electoral Commission of Zambia and Zambia Police were also ineffective in executing their mandate independently and impartially. To prevent electoral violence, this study suggests that political parties should develop their party codes of conduct, and the Electoral Commission of Zambia and Zambia Police should enforce the electoral code of conduct impartially. Democracies require highly inclusive political participation levels, which can only be achieved through the presence of meaningful and extensive competition among individuals and organized groups. Strong political parties are necessary to prevent electoral violence, as are effective electoral laws.