Lusaka, Zambia – Zambian President Rupiah Banda on Sunday pledged to abide by the final election results that will be announced by the Electoral Commission of Zambia as Zambians prepare to go to the polls Tuesday.

In his national television address here, President Banda, who is being challenged by nine other presidential candidates, also called on his opponents to abide by the final results.

“My main concern in the remaining time is that all candidates, all parties and all supporters should conduct themselves within the laws of our land,” Banda said at the end of the eight-week campaign period that ended at 6.00 am local time.

President Banda also warned those, he said, could be contemplating any illegal acts or intimidation or physical violence that he had ordered the police to arrest and prosecute all offenders.

“Expect no mercy, expect no favour, expect only the full force of the law to come down on you,” the President stated.

He said: “Have your vote and have your say for the next five years. So on Tuesday, get to the polling stations early to cast your vote. And please have patience. This elections will see the most cast vote in our nation’s history.”

Zambians go to the polls on 20 September to vote in the presidential, parliamentary and local government elections.

President Banda of the ruling Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD) was elected during the presidential by-elections in 2008 following the death of Levy Mwanawasa. 

Banda’s closest rival in Tuesday’s election is the outspoken opposition leader of the Patriotic Front, Michael Sata.

Pana 19/09/2011