Zambia’s democracy at ‘tipping point’ as army deployed on polling day

Fears grow that military presence and alleged restrictions on opposition campaign could tarnish reputation for fair elections

As Zambia goes to the polls today, fears are growing that political meddling in the process could push its long-treasured democracy towards a tipping point".

Zambia has long been considered a model of democracy for its neighbours. But today's vote has been accompanied by a military deployment, while the run-up to the election has been marred by political violence and restrictions on opposition campaigning, analysts and human rights monitors have said.