20/05/2026
URGENT
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
WE EXPECT SWIFT ACTION: BRING TO BOOK PERPETRATORS OF VIOLENCE
AS CCZ CONDEMNS ATTACKS ON MR. GARY NKOMBO
The Council of Churches in Zambia (CCZ) wishes to condemn in the strongest terms the acts of harassment and violence witnessed in Mazabuka, where Mr. Gary Nkombo was allegedly humiliated and harassed by individuals believed to be members of the United Party for National Development (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.
We cannot afford to return to a culture of political violence and lawlessness where cadres violate the law even in the presence of police officers.
We are pleased to note the quick reaffirmation of zero tolerance towards political and electoral violence by the Commander-in-Chief, His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema, following the incident.
However, we expected law enforcement agencies to act promptly without appearing to wait for instructions before acting. Regardless of one’s political affiliation, there should be no room for negotiation with individuals who take pride in causing chaos and disorder.
We strongly urge political party leaders to set clear examples within their parties by ensuring that those championing violence face appropriate disciplinary measures.
Perhaps more needs to be done to deter individuals from engaging in all forms of political and electoral violence.
Young people must understand that those who incite them to cause chaos often to remain safely in their comfort zones while they bear the consequences of the law, bringing pain and misery upon themselves and their loved ones.
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.
Look beyond the temporary incentives being offered and choose a path that safeguards your 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.
To the law enforcement agencies, this period provides an opportunity to assure the Zambian people that you are in charge not the cadres and that you possess the full capacity to respond swiftly and decisively against anyone promoting lawlessness.We will not tolerate lawlessness.
May God’s peace continue to prevail in our nation.
REV. CANON JAMES PHIRI
THE GENERAL SECRETARY
