LUSAKA – The Advocates for Democratic Governance Foundation (ADEG) has cautioned political parties against becoming complacent because opinion polls appear to favour them ahead of Zambia's August 13, 2026 General Election.
ADEG Executive Director Gideon Musonda said opinion polls are a normal feature of democratic elections but should not be mistaken for the actual outcome of an election.
Musonda explained that poll results represent public opinion at a particular point in time and may differ significantly from the final results declared after voting.
He warned that poorly conducted surveys and inadequate sampling methods can produce findings that do not accurately reflect the views of the electorate.
Musonda called on organisations conducting opinion polls to use credible methodologies and clearly explain the statistical basis and sampling techniques behind their findings to promote transparency and public confidence.
He also urged citizens to understand the limitations of opinion polls and avoid treating them as definitive predictions of election results.
His remarks come amid the release of various opinion polls, with some projecting National Reconciliation Party for Unity and Prosperity (NRPUP) presidential candidate Brian Mundubile as the frontrunner, while others suggest the election could be closely contested and potentially proceed to a presidential run-off if no candidate secures the required 50 percent plus one of the valid votes.
Source:
Phoenix News
By:
Elesani Phiri