The Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) has raised serious concerns over the National Electoral Commission’s (NEC) delay in providing the party with the Special Interest Group (SIG) voter registers.

The FDC warns that this hold-up could lead to the nomination of ineligible candidates and misrepresentation of key groups such as Youth, Elders, and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs).

Speaking to the media on Thursday, June 5, 2025, FDC’s Chief Electoral Commissioner, Boniface Toterebuka Bamwenda, criticized the NEC for not fulfilling its constitutional mandate to supply the necessary registers.

“Access to these registers is crucial for verifying candidates’ eligibility and ensuring the integrity of the nomination process,” Bamwenda said.

Nominations for SIG representatives to village councils began on June 2 and are set to end on June 10, 2025.

Bamwenda outlined that the party has decentralized the nomination process, allowing members to pick up and return nomination forms at their respective district offices.

Sub-County Chairpersons have been empowered to endorse SIG candidates locally to streamline nominations.

“We urge all party members to follow the electoral guidelines closely and participate actively in the nomination process,” Bamwenda added.

He also encouraged the Electoral Commission to provide the registers promptly to avoid any disruptions.

Meanwhile, Bamwenda reminded party members of the upcoming Delegates Conference scheduled for July 31, 2025, where FDC will elect its Presidential Flag Bearer for the 2026 general elections.

Two candidates have already been nominated, with guidelines issued to ensure transparent and accountable campaigns.

The party has also announced nomination fees for various positions, with no fees required for councilor positions. The fee structure aims to maintain fairness and accessibility across all levels of leadership contests.