Statement by Kofi Annan on Zambia’s national elections

On the eve of the announcement of the results of Zambia’s presidential elections, Kofi Annan, Chair of the Kofi Annan Foundation and Nobel Peace Laureate, calls for calm and respect for the rule of law.

“I congratulate the citizens of Zambia for their impressive voter turnout on 11 August and for the peaceful and orderly election day, made possible by the diligent work of the election officials, party agents and monitors. In this tense and competitive climate it is essential that the security forces respect the constitution and remain impartial and professional in the discharge of their duties.”

He noted that Zambia has an enviable record of 25 years of peaceful democratic elections, which have often been held up as an example for the continent.

Mr Annan added, “I call on the candidates, their parties and supporters to avoid violence. Any complaints with the election process should be channelled through the courts, and not in the streets. Zambians can be justifiably proud of their democratic traditions and I urge the people of Zambia to uphold that enviable reputation.”