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The Bishop’s Council of Zambia (BCZ) has called on political leaders, civil society, traditional authorities, and citizens to exercise wisdom, restraint, and mutual respect before, during and after the August 13, 2026 General Elections.
BCZ President, Bishop Martin Silwimba, said the nation must guard against division, misinformation, and suspicion that could weaken national unity as the election period approaches.
Speaking during a media briefing in Lusaka, Silwimba stressed that Zambia belonged to all its citizens, and safeguarding peace, dignity, and stability remained a shared responsibility.
Quoting Jeremiah 29:7, he said: “Seek the peace and prosperity of the city… because if it prospers, you too will prosper. Let us therefore work together for the peace, development, and wellbeing of our beloved country.”
Silwimba urged the Church, traditional leaders, Government and civil society to work collectively — not with “empty slogans” — but through actions that embody the national motto “One Zambia, One Nation” and the BCZ call for unity, “Together as One.”
He reminded Zambians that while political parties rose and fell with election cycles, the Church, Government, and traditional leadership remained the enduring pillars of society.
Citing Romans 13:1, Silwimba said the Church respected governing authorities and remained committed to praying for leaders and cooperating with government in pursuit of the common good.
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He added that the BCZ was dedicated to supporting national development through farming, entrepreneurship and initiatives that helped create jobs and improved livelihoods.
“Elections are an essential pillar of democracy, but while elections are seasonal, governance is continuous,” he said, emphasising that government responsibilities to citizens persist regardless of political competition.
Silwimba also stressed the need to distinguish between government as an institution of public service and the activities of political parties seeking electoral support.
“The provision of social support, development initiatives, and cooperation with community and faith-based institutions remains a legitimate and necessary duty of the state,” he said.
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