UPND Opposes Candlelight Prayer Event
By Ruth Chayinda
The UPND has called for the cancellation of a planned candlelight prayer programme scheduled for August 12, 2026, a day before the General Election.
In a letter addressed to Marian Shrine Chelstone Priest Father FELIX BANDA and the Electoral Commission of Zambia -ECZ, UPND Secretary General BATUKE IMENDA said the timing and nature of the event raise political concerns
Mr. IMENDA said candles and lamps are official symbols of some political parties contesting the August 13 General Election.
He said holding a candlelight event on the eve of the polls could be interpreted as carrying political overtones rather than being solely a religious gathering.
Mr. IMENDA said the event could attract supporters of the affected political parties, increasing the risk of a religious gathering turning into a political procession.
He said the planned programme could also create anxiety among church members and members of the public who may view it as favouring certain political parties.
Meanwhile, on August 4, 2026, Father FELIX BANDA of the Archdiocese of Lusaka called on clergy, religious leaders and the faithful to take part in candlelight prayers for peace on August 12, ahead of the General Election.