As Zambia prepares for the August Presidential and General Elections, the Catholic Bishops have issued a Pastoral Letter advising politicians, the faithful, and all Zambians of goodwill to work towards creating a peaceful and civil electoral environment. Zambian Bishops have pledged that the Church will remain non-partisan, asserting, “Church premises must not be used for political campaigns.”
Paul Samasumo – Vatican City.
The Bishops urge Zambia’s Catholic clergy not to align themselves with partisan political interests, as this comprises their sacred calling.
The Pulpit is not for political opportunism
In their Pastoral Letter, the Bishops also insist that “the Church is not and must never be a mouthpiece for any political party or candidate. Our duty is to form consciences, promote the common good, and speak truth to power,” the Pastoral Letter reads in part.
Churches, say the Bishops, should always remain houses of prayer, reflection, and reconciliation, not partisan campaign platforms.
To this end, the Bishops have directed that: “Church premises must not be used for political campaigns; No clergy or lay leader should accept political donations in exchange for influence; The pulpit must remain a place of prophetic truth and moral clarity, not political opportunism.
Commit to respecting the results
The wide-ranging Pastoral Letter on elections urges Zambians to view politics as a noble calling that should never be about accumulating personal privilege. They call for credible and transparent elections and advise citizens to embrace civility, especially during the campaign period.
Other key concerns raised include advocating for issue-based campaigns and, above all, urging “all political parties to commit — publicly and unequivocally — to respect the outcome of free, fair, and credible elections.”
Last weekend, Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema assured Zambians and the international community of transparent, free, and fair elections. He made the remarks during a meeting with Ambassadors and High Commissioners accredited to Zambia.
Presidential and General elections are due to be held in Zambia on 13 August 2026 to elect the president, members of the National Assembly, councillors, mayors, and local council chairs.
