Mutharika said credible, free and fair elections are critical to strengthening democratic institutions and promoting peaceful political and economic transitions across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region. The SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation plays a key role in promoting peace, security, political stability and democratic governance among member states. The President’s message also highlights the regional importance of Zambia’s elections. As a member of SADC, Zambia’s political stability has implications beyond its borders, particularly for regional cooperation, trade, investment and economic development. The August 13 elections will put Zambia’s democratic institutions and political stakeholders in focus as voters exercise their right to determine the country’s political leadership.