The Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) has intensified preparations for the Muchinda Ward by-election scheduled for Thursday, February 12, in Serenje District of Central Province.

District Electoral Officer Stan Mwanakayaya confirmed that all polling staff have been trained and are set for deployment to voting centers.

Mr Mwanakayaya added that all election materials have been received and the district is fully prepared for the poll.

He noted that the ECZ will today hold a final engagement meeting with stakeholders to remind them of the rules governing polling day.

Mr Mwanakayaya further stated that the ward has not recorded any incidents, with campaigns proceeding smoothly.

Three political parties are contesting the election: United Progressive and Peaceful Zambia, the Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD) and the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND).

ZANIS reports that the by-election was necessitated by the death of UPND councilor Thomas Phiri.