THE election process has come to pass following a short period of intense political campaigns to usher in a new Republican president to take over from late President Michael Sata, who died on October 28 last year.
It is pleasing to note that Zambians turned out in large numbers to vote for their preferred candidates in yet another transitional period to hand over power in a peaceful manner.
Despite the campaign period being characterised  by a few incidents of violence, what is paramount is that Zambians have shown the world the determination to ensure peace prevails amidst discontent and anxiety on the political environment.
This was important in determining the future of the country but lessons should be drawn during the period of campaigns to voting day, as it is only next year that general elections will be held again.
The victor from Tuesday’s election has a huge task ahead – to continue with economic policies that will better the lives of Zambians and sustain investor confidence and woo more investment into the country’s industries.
Expectations from the electorate are high at this time and the winner has to prove that he/she deserved to be voted into office and perform to people’s expectations ahead of next year’s general elections.
Political leaders that have taken part in the election should also accept the outcome as there has only to be one winner. This applies to every Zambian, in that they too need to accept the outcome of the election.
This period is very critical as the focus is still on Zambia – the donor community has been keeping a close watch to happenings in the country from the time Mr Sata passed away, and so far they have not been disappointed.
Anyone aggrieved following the results of the election should follow the right channel to air their grievances as there is no room to take to the streets in an event one is displeased with the outcome.
Those that taste defeat in this election should not feel less Zambian but should continue to play their role by providing checks and balances to the party that forms government until the general elections in 2016.
The winner should respect those that have lost the election as they are key to the governance of this country.
Zambia is for all Zambians and one factor that should not divide the people is tribalism, which was a prime issue during campaigns.
The governance of this country is beyond tribalism and it is important that this factor is denounced in the strongest terms. The same applies to electoral violence.
These are factors that if left to roam political circles and society at large may make the country risks losing a lot in terms of unity and peace that has characterised Zambia for the past 50 years.
As a new chapter unveils itself on the country’s political calendar, Zambians need to realise the importance of co-existence and continue believing in the motto ‘One Zambia One Nation’ initiated by first Republican president Kenneth Kaunda.
All the political happenings aside, the winner has to be congratulated and accepted to ensure the governance of this country continues in a fashion that befits a vibrant democracy.
To the losers among the 11 candidates that took part in the election, it was a torrid path as huge investments were made and risks taken, but building a strong democratic foundation does not come cheaply.
They should, therefore, be encouraged to continue participating.
Zambians have patiently waited and now a leader has been chosen, everyone awaits to see what programmes will be unveiled to better their lives. OPINION