Electoral Officer slams removal of voter education posters

SOLWEZI District Electoral Officer Stanley Mbewe has expressed concern over the tearing down and removal of voter education posters displayed in public places.

According to astatement issued by Solwezi District Voter Education and Publicity Coordinator, Esther Chirwa, Mr Mbewe said posters are a vital tool in disseminating information on electoral procedures as well as voter’s rights and responsibilities.

“We note with concern the tearing down and removal of voter education posters displayed in public places by our Voter Education Facilitators,” he said.

He said posters serve as an important source of information for the public especially in areas with limited access to other communication platforms.

 “The public is reminded that it is an offence to remove, deface, destroy or temper with voter education materials. Any person found guilty of such an offence may, upon conviction, be liable to a fine not exceeding K200, 000, imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years, or both,” Mr Mbewe said.

Mr Mbewe, who is also Solwezi Town Clerk, has urged the public to safeguard voter education materials and support efforts aimed at ensuring that all eligible citizens have access to accurate electoral information.

“Let us protect voter education materials and promote informed participation in the electoral process,” he said.