CATHOLIC BISHOPS RAISE CONCERN OVER POLITICAL TENSIONS, ELECTORAL CREDIBILITY
By ZR Reporter
The Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) has raised concern over what it says are increasing political polarisation, ethnic tensions, restrictions on civic freedoms and questions surrounding the credibility and transparency of electoral processes in Zambia.
In a pastoral statement issued on Wednesday following an extraordinary meeting of eight bishops held on September 29, the bishops said the developments risk weakening public confidence in national institutions and deepening divisions among citizens.
The ZCCB expressed concern over what it described as the use of ethnic identities and tribal sentiments for political purposes, saying this threatens the principle of “One Zambia, One Nation.”
The bishops also raised concerns over fears among citizens regarding personal security, freedom of expression and the consequences of expressing political views.
They further cited what they described as a narrowing space for independent media, civil society organisations and dissenting voices.
On the 2026 General Elections, the bishops raised concerns over the conduct and management of the electoral process, as well as issues relating to access to justice and the independence of governance institutions.
The ZCCB also referred to reports of harassment, restrictions and arrests involving opposition political actors.
The bishops condemned intimidation, political violence and cadreism, while expressing concern over reports of arbitrary arrests, military presence in civilian spaces and the use of force that they said had resulted in the loss of civilian lives.
The bishops have called for urgent national dialogue, reconciliation and healing involving political, ethnic, religious and social groups.
They also called for stronger democratic institutions, credible and transparent electoral processes, increased civic and constitutional education, and protection of freedom of expression and association.
The ZCCB further called for an end to arbitrary arrests, intimidation and political violence.
The bishops urged political leaders to place the common good above partisan interests and called on citizens to reject hatred, tribalism and violence.
They also urged the public to avoid using social media to spread misinformation and insults.
The ZCCB said the Church would continue supporting national dialogue, advocacy and reconciliation, while urging Zambians to work towards a society where human dignity, justice, freedom and peaceful political participation are respected.
The bishops’ concerns come amid other recent calls from Catholic Church leaders for dialogue and national reconciliation following the 2026 elections.
Zambia Reports
How does anyone dialogue about a matter before the courts?? These chaps have just documented their support for lawlessness and stealing of government assets.
Are these chaps even aware of “Render unto Caesar the things that belong to Caesar” ??
The Zambian constitution (Caesar) demands justice and fairness.
The former ZRA boss is already serving a 6 year prison sentence. The receiving end of the stolen Toyota Hilux needs to explain why the vehicle is in his name. No one is above the law. If they can not adhere to the laws of the land, they can not obey the laws of God.
Ba Malikopo, nowhere in their communication do the bishops make any mention of the case you are talking about.
Their concerns are directed at the government and the opposition. For example, Mr. Emmanuel “Goebbels” Mwamba a well known opposition figure is guilty of stirring tribal sentiments and spreading falsehoods.
Equally, the government’s closure of courts for three days effectively curtailing the lodging of the presidential election petition is part of the concerns the bishops have expressed.
The Bishops should have calmed down.How do you issue a pastoral letter immediately after your friend is released from detention.Please don’t demean the importance of your letters to serve personal grievances
The Vatican is making great efforts to restore it’s tarnished image world wide and improve its dwindling faithfuls.Activities of Cardinals like Bishop Banda are not helping in this regard.ZCCB, itsel must be seen to be calm and in control.No tantrums,please
The release of the letter is ill timed. It can easily be taken as reaction to the current events. This does not seat well.
The release of the letter is ill timed. It can easily be mistaken to a reaction to the current events instead of being a constructive criticism. This does not seat well.