By 
The Council of Churches in Zambia has condemned two separate suspected cases of politically related killings reported in Kaputa District and Mazabuka District, stating that “one life lost is too many.”
According to reports, an identified man was allegedly killed in an incident that the Zambia Police Service is investigating as suspected political violence.
In a separate incident, a man believed to have been a driver for an independent aspiring parliamentary candidate for Magoye Constituency was found dead at a campaign camp in Chivuna.
In a statement issued Thursday, CCZ General Secretary Reverend Canon James Phiri said the Council was deeply saddened by the incidents.
“We categorically condemn all acts of politically motivated violence and killings. Such acts have no place in our democracy. Elections should be a contest of ideas, policies, and visions for national development not fists, violence and bloodshed,” Phiri said.
He said behind every life taken was a grieving family, children who may grow up without a parent, and communities left traumatized.
“One life lost is one too many. We must ask ourselves: Is this the Zambia we desire? No political ambition or difference in opinion is worth the loss of human life,” Phiri said.
He urged all political leaders to reject violence in all its forms and to refrain from influencing, encouraging, or sponsoring attacks against political opponents.
Phiri stated that leadership was demonstrated through service, integrity, and respect for human life not through intimidation or the pursuit of power at any cost.
He appealed to young people not to allow themselves to be used as instruments of political violence.
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“Elections come and go, but the consequences of criminal acts can last a lifetime. Those who sponsor violence often remain in the safety of their homes while those they manipulate face arrest, imprisonment, and the emotional and financial burden placed on their families,” Phiri said.
He also called on law enforcement agencies to remain vigilant and enhance security measures as political campaigns intensify.
“The safety of every citizen, regardless of political affiliation, must be protected, and all perpetrators of political violence must be brought to justice without fear or favour,” Phiri said.
He counseled political leaders, candidates, supporters, traditional leaders, faith communities, civil society, and every Zambian citizen to reject violence and uphold peace, tolerance, and respect for one another throughout the electoral process.
Quoting Luke 6:31, Phiri said: “Do to others as you would have them do to you.”
“May the peace of God continue to reign in our nation as we prepare for the 2026 General Elections,” he said.
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