ARCHBISHOP Alick Banda of the Archdiocese of Lusaka has condemned what he described as a “disturbing rise” in politically motivated violence ahead of Zambia’s August 13, 2026 General Election.
In a statement released, Banda said reports across the country include campaign convoys being attacked, supporters assaulted, property destroyed, and innocent lives lost.
“Violent confrontations at rallies, intimidation of citizens, and targeted attacks on opposition candidates have stained the democratic landscape,” Banda said.
He said such acts are “not merely assaults on individuals but direct attacks on democracy, the Constitution, and the values upon which Zambia was founded.”
He singled out the harassment of opposition supporters exercising their right to campaign as particularly troubling.
“Democracy thrives on ideas, persuasion and debate, not on fists, stones, or weapons,” Banda said.
The Archbishop warned those who orchestrate violence: “history will judge harshly. Political office is temporary, but the wounds inflicted on citizens and the divisions sown in communities can endure for generations. No ambition is worth the blood of a fellow Zambian.”
Banda urged political leaders to show “consistency, accountability, and moral courage” and to condemn violence even when committed by their own supporters.
He called on the *Zambia Police Service* to act impartially and bring perpetrators to justice “regardless of affiliation,” saying selective enforcement “only deepens mistrust and undermines confidence in democratic institutions.”
Quoting Matthew 5:9, Banda said: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God. Violence cannot deliver justice, nor can hatred build peace. Elections will pass, but Zambia remains our shared home.”
He reminded citizens that “political opponents are not enemies but fellow Zambians with whom we share one destiny” and called for the 2026 election to be remembered for “peace, dignity and the triumph of democratic values.
The Church pledged to continue praying for the nation and standing with victims of injustice.
“May the Lord bless Zambia, protect her people, and grant free, fair and credible elections,” the statement concluded.
(Mwebantu)