Government dismisses claims of suspension of church gatherings

Zambia’s government has dismissed as false social media claims that church meetings, overnight prayers, crusades and other public gatherings have been suspended until Nov. 1, 2026.

Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary, Thabo Kawana, said no such directive had been issued by the Secretary to the Cabinet or the government.

In a statement issued in Lusaka on Tuesday, Kawana said the information circulating on social media was false and did not represent a government decision or directive.

“The Government has noted with concern the attribution of the alleged directive to the Secretary to the Cabinet,” Kawana said.

He said the government remained committed to upholding the Constitution and laws of Zambia, including rights and freedoms relating to freedom of conscience, religion or belief and peaceful assembly.

Kawana urged members of the public to verify information purporting to originate from government institutions or public officials before sharing or acting on it.

He also urged the media and others involved in disseminating information to verify such reports with the relevant authorities before publication or circulation.

“Official Government decisions and directives are communicated through established Government channels and authorised spokespersons,” Kawana emphasised.

He encouraged the public to rely on official government communication channels for accurate and verified information on government policies, decisions and directives.

Kawana said the government would continue to provide timely and accurate information to the public on matters of national interest.

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