Vote counting in Zambia's presidential election was temporarily suspended following reports of violence and ballot theft at a number of polling stations, before electoral officials resumed the process, with final results now expected Monday.
The Electoral Commission of Zambia confirmed disruptions at several counting centres, including incidents in which ballot materials were allegedly seized or destroyed by unidentified individuals. Security forces were deployed to affected areas to restore order and secure remaining ballot boxes as counting resumed.
The election has drawn close attention from regional observers given Zambia's recent history of contested transitions. Both leading candidates have urged supporters to remain calm and await the official outcome through legal channels, as international and domestic observer missions continue monitoring the collation process.