Hichilema urges Church to promote unity, morality ahead of 2026 elections

President Hakainde Hichilema has called on the Church to play a central role in uplifting living standards and shaping morally upright citizens, urging Zambians to embrace peace and live as true Christians.

Speaking at Mongu Central New Apostolic Church in Western Province, where he is on a working visit after gracing the Kuomboka Ceremony, President Hichilema said faith must reflect exemplary conduct, especially as the nation heads toward the 2026 general elections.

“As we run into the election, we have to keep the country peaceful and stable, and elections should not divide our Zambian family,” he said.

The Head of State reiterated government’s commitment to ensuring peaceful and credible elections on August 13, 2026.

In a gesture of support to community development, President Hichilema also announced a personal donation of K200,000 toward completion of church-related infrastructure, including roofing materials for Makapaela Community School, Kanyonyo Church, and Liyoyelo Church.

Meanwhile, Vice President Mutale Nalumango said the government would continue working with the Church in its holistic ministry and its role in delivering social services.

Speaking when she graced the 45th Anniversary of the Reformed Church in Zambia Railway Congregation in Kabwe, Nalumango said the Church shaped national morality, but that what was currently seen in society showed there was still much to be done.

She expressed concern over rising immoral behaviour, especially among youths, fuelled by content on social media.

“Yes, we are sinners, but we should refuse to allow things to go the way they are going. We have to call upon His help because we can’t see again what we saw in Kalumbila. They did not just brutally murder a woman — they undressed a mother. We have a lot of work to do,” she said.

Earlier, Reformed Church in Zambia (RCZ) Synod Moderator Jackson Banda called on the Church to champion peace ahead of the general elections. He said the Church had no political affiliation but worked with the government of the day.

As the RCZ celebrated its 45th anniversary under the theme “Ebenezer: This Far The Lord Helped Us,” Banda said the Church remained committed to promoting unity and peace in the country.

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