08/06/2026
Lusaka mayoral candidate threatens legal actions over ECZ symbol dispute!
AN independent candidate for the position of Mayor of Lusaka has issued a formal Notice of Objection to the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), threatening court action if the commission proceeds with plans to withdraw the Candle symbol that was allocated to his candidature.
Simon Mulenga Mwila, a legal practitioner and doctoral candidate who filed his nomination on 22nd May 2026, delivered the letter to ECZ headquarters at Electiion House today, demanding written confirmation within 24 hours that his symbol would remain unchanged.
In his letter to the Chief Electoral Officer, Mwila said the proposed withdrawal of the Candle symbol communicated by the commission on 6th June 2026 was unjust and prejudicial, coming after he had already invested significant financial and organisational resources in branding, voter education, posters, flyers, social media content and public engagements built around the symbol.
"This is not just about a symbol. It is about fairness, certainty and ensuring that candidates are not prejudiced by administrative 'political' decisions made after nominations have closed," Mwila said.
He warned that failure by the ECZ to provide the required written confirmation within the stipulated timeframe would compel him to seek legal redress in the courts to protect his rights and the integrity of the electoral process.
The dispute adds to the growing list of administrative controversies surrounding the 13th August 2026 General Election, raising fresh questions about the management of electoral symbols by the commission ahead of polling day.
The ECZ is yet to officially respond to Mwila's objection.
TV Yatu | Walusungu Silweya | June 8, 2026.