By 
The Council of Churches in Zambia (CCZ), the Southern African Centre for the Constructive Resolution of Disputes (SACCORD), and other stakeholders are calling for swift and decisive action from law enforcement agencies against political cadres involved in violent activities.
CCZ, SACCORD, and organisations such as the Foundation for Democratic Process (FODEP) have expressed deep concern over the increasing incidents of political violence among parties in the country.
CCZ General-Secretary, Father Emmanuel Chikoya, noted that members of the United Party for National Development (UPND), as confirmed by their National Youth Chairperson Gilbert Liswaniso, recently attacked the Patriotic Front (PF) Secretariat in Lusaka.
Chikoya also referenced a video circulating on social media showing PF Acting President, Given Lubinda, being assaulted and harassed by UPND cadres in Kabwe on Wednesday, 19 November 2025.
“The pace at which these disheartening incidents are occurring is alarming and is a potential time bomb that if left unchecked will explode,” he said.
He stressed that such lawlessness should be addressed swiftly, and perpetrators brought to book without fear or favour.
“While CCZ takes note of statements by government officials and UPND leaders condemning these incidents, there is a need to back their words with decisive and visible action against those found wanting,” Chikoya said.
Regarding the Kabwe incident, he noted remarks by UPND Kabwe Youth Acting Chairperson, Kelvin Mwangala, who accused Lubinda of conducting a meeting without a police permit.
Similarly, SACCORD Executive, Arthur Muyunda, warned that the UPND risked losing public support if the violent conduct of their cadres was not dealt with urgently, as was done with the PF.
“We categorically state that we shall not sit idly by and watch our country slip back into chaos and broad-daylight lawlessness,” Muyunda said.
He called on all political actors to demonstrate maturity, warning that untreated incidents of violence can become entrenched and spiral out of control.
“We urge all political actors to follow the law by operating within the confines of the law,” he said, emphasising that legal mandates should not be politicised.
“Compliance with legal procedures is essential for maintaining peace, order, and respect for democratic processes.”
Muyunda reminded law enforcement agencies that politicians come and go, but the Zambian people, who had entrusted them to safeguard the nation above partisan interests, remain.
FODEP Executive Director, Elijah Rubvuta, echoed CCZ and SACCORD’s sentiments, calling on law enforcement agencies to uphold the law fairly and fearlessly.
“We expect and demand the same level of urgency in dealing with political violence across the board, whether the perpetrators are from the ruling party or the opposition,” Rubvuta said.
He also urged youths not to sell their future, dignity, or freedom for short-term gains such as money or alcohol.
“Consider the bigger picture. Those who send you into harm’s way remain in comfort, while you alone will face the consequences when the law catches up with you,” he said.
Rubvuta concluded by urging all Zambians to desist from political violence and ensure that democracy was upheld at all times.
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