The report recognises that Zambian citizens had a competitive choice of candidates and that polling staff administered voting efficiently. It also commends the Electoral Commission of Zambia for its preparation. However, it warns that serious shortcomings before and after polling day undermined the fairness and transparency of the election.

Opposition campaigning was constrained by police bias, political violence and restrictions that did not apply equally to the incumbent. The state broadcaster, ZNBC, gave overwhelmingly favourable coverage to the governing party, while restrictive cyber laws contributed to growing self-censorship. Women, young people and persons with disabilities also remained underrepresented as candidates.

Concerns continued after the polls. On 14 August, the Electoral Commission suspended the counting and announcement of results nationwide for six hours. Observers recorded a deterioration in the transparency of the tabulation process following this interruption.

Access to justice was also compromised. The courts were physically closed from 24 to 26 August, during the seven-day period for challenging the presidential result announced on 18 August. The closure, enforced by police and military personnel at the Lusaka court complex, restricted access at a critical moment for anyone seeking to bring an electoral petition.

Mr McNamara said: “The suspension of counting and the subsequent closure of courts curtailed transparency and access to justice, two pillars of any democratic election.”

He added: “Our recommendations aim to contribute to reforms that can strengthen transparency, inclusiveness and accountability in future elections.”

The report makes 13 recommendations, eight of which are identified as priorities. These include reforming electoral legislation well ahead of future elections, ensuring equal conditions for candidates, protecting freedom of expression and assembly, transforming ZNBC into an independent public service broadcaster, guaranteeing access to justice and making the counting and publication of results fully transparent.