16/06/2026
The Zambia Police Service, in partnership with the Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance (DCAF), has launched an Election Security Preparedness Training Programme for officers from Copperbelt Province in Ndola.
The training, attended by officers from across the province, aims to strengthen the capacity of the Police Service to effectively manage security challenges associated with elections before, during, and after the electoral process.
Speaking on behalf of Inspector General of Police Mr. Graphel Musamba, Copperbelt Division Commanding Officer, Commissioner of Police Mr. Mwala Yuyi said the programme forms part of ongoing efforts to enhance operational readiness, professionalism, and effectiveness in safeguarding democratic processes.
Mr. Musamba said elections are a defining moment in any democracy, allowing citizens to exercise their constitutional right to choose leaders and shape the nation's future.
"While elections bring hope and opportunity, they also present unique security challenges that require careful planning, professionalism, and vigilance," he said.
The Inspector General noted that the Zambia Police Service has a constitutional mandate to maintain law and order, protect life and property, and ensure elections are conducted in a peaceful, secure, and credible environment.
He further stated that the timing of the training is strategic, emphasizing that effective election security requires a proactive rather than reactive approach.
"It demands that the Zambia Police Service anticipates potential threats, identifies emerging risks, and implements preventive measures before situations escalate into security incidents," he said.
Meanwhile, the DCAF Country Head of Office, Mr. Neil Abbott, said professionalism, accountability, communication, and respect for human rights are the foundation of effective policing.
"The programme aims to create conditions for peaceful participation, effective security, and respect for democratic rights," Mr. Abbott said.
He also stressed the importance of collaboration among law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, oversight bodies, the media, civil society, and local communities in promoting peaceful elections.
And Director of Legal Services and Vice Chairperson of the Zambia Police Election Technical Committee, Mr. John Daka, said the training forms part of a broader partnership aimed at building a modern, professional, accountable, and people-centred Police Service.
The training is being conducted under the theme, "Policing for Peaceful Elections," reflecting the Police Service's commitment to maintaining law and order and ensuring citizens freely and peacefully exercise their democratic rights...
Source: Zambia Police
