By 
The Council of Churches in Zambia (CCZ) has condemned acts of harassment and violence in Mazabuka against aspiring Independent candidate Gary Nkombo and called for the perpetrators to be brought to book.
In a statement issued in Lusaka, General Secretary Reverend Canon James Phiri condemned “in the strongest terms” the alleged humiliation and harassment of Nkombo by individuals believed to be members of the UPND.
“As the country draws closer to the General Elections, we wish to categorically state that acts of violence and political harassment have no place in our nation,” Phiri said.
He said the country cannot afford to return to a culture of political violence and lawlessness where cadres violated the law even in the presence of police officers.
Phiri said it was pleased to note the quick reaffirmation of zero tolerance towards political and electoral violence by President Hakainde Hichilema following the incident.
“Regardless of one’s political affiliation, there should be no room for negotiation with individuals who take pride in causing chaos and disorder,” he said.
Phiri, however, said the CCZ expected law enforcement agencies to act promptly without appearing to wait for instructions before acting.
He urged political party leaders to set clear examples by ensuring that those championing violence faced appropriate disciplinary measures.
“Perhaps more needs to be done to deter individuals from engaging in all forms of political and electoral violence,” Phiri said.
He cautioned young people against being used to cause chaos, saying those who incite them often remained safe while the youth bore the consequences.
“We therefore urge youths to refrain from engaging in political violence or allowing themselves to be used as tools for destruction and disorder. Your future is bright and full of potential,” Phiri said.
He said youths should look beyond the temporary incentives being offered and choose a path that safeguards dignity, peace, and destiny.
“Scripture reminds us how pleasant it is when people live together in harmony. There is life after elections, but there is no replacement for lives that may be lost because of electoral violence,” Phiri said.
Similary, the Advocates For Democratic Governance Foundation (ADEG) said it was particularly disturbed by the reported attack and attempt by UPND cadres to block the former Mazabuka Member of Parliament from filing nomination papers.
“Such acts are unacceptable, undemocratic, and constitute a direct violation of the constitutional rights of aspiring candidates to freely participate in the electoral process,” said ADEG Executive Director Gideon Musonda.
Musonda also expressed concern by an incident reported by its monitors in Mumbwa where a candidate identified as Gracious Hamatala was blocked from accessing the nomination centre amid scenes of confusion and violence.
“These unfortunate developments undermine the credibility, integrity, and peaceful conduct of the electoral process and risk escalating political tensions in the country,” he said.
Musonda said the culture of political impunity should come to an end if Zambia was to preserve peace, democracy, and credible elections.
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