Lusaka: As Zambia moves closer to its Presidential and General Elections scheduled for August 13, 2026, the country’s Catholic Bishops have issued a strong pastoral appeal urging clergy, the faithful, and all citizens to promote peace, civility, and integrity throughout the electoral process. Emphasizing the Church’s moral responsibility, the Bishops reaffirmed their commitment to political neutrality and cautioned against the misuse of Church platforms for partisan purposes.
In a Pastoral Letter released ahead of the polls, the Bishops stressed that the Catholic Church in Zambia will remain firmly non-partisan, making it clear that Church premises must never be turned into venues for political campaigning. They reminded both politicians and believers that places of worship are sacred spaces meant for prayer, reflection, and reconciliation, not arenas for political rivalry.
The Bishops issued a direct appeal to Catholic priests and pastoral workers, urging them to refrain from aligning themselves with any political party or candidate. Such involvement, the letter noted, runs contrary to their sacred vocation and risks undermining the Church’s credibility as a moral guide for society.
“The Church is not, and must never become, a mouthpiece for any political party or individual,” the Bishops stated. They underlined that the Church’s mission is to form consciences, uphold the common good, and speak truth to power, rather than seek favor or influence through political alliances.
Reiterating the sanctity of Church ministry, the Bishops cautioned against turning the pulpit into a platform for political opportunism. They issued clear directives that no clergy or lay leaders should accept political donations in exchange for influence, and that sermons must retain their prophetic role by offering moral clarity rooted in Gospel values.
According to the Bishops, the pulpit should inspire justice, peace, and ethical leadership, not promote partisan agendas or electoral ambitions.
Beyond Church matters, the Pastoral Letter addressed the wider political climate, encouraging Zambians to view politics as a noble service rather than a means for personal enrichment. The Bishops called for issue-based campaigns, respectful dialogue, and responsible conduct throughout the election period.
A central appeal of the letter was directed at political parties, urging them to publicly and unequivocally commit to respecting the results of free, fair, and credible elections. Such a commitment, the Bishops noted, is essential for safeguarding national unity and democratic stability.
The pastoral message comes amid assurances from President Hakainde Hichilema, who recently told diplomats and international partners that Zambia remains committed to conducting transparent and credible elections. His remarks were made during a meeting with Ambassadors and High Commissioners accredited to the country.
Zambia’s Presidential and General Elections, scheduled for August 13, 2026, will see voters elect the president, members of the National Assembly, councillors, mayors, and local council chairpersons. As the campaign season intensifies, the Catholic Bishops’ message stands as a call for conscience-driven politics, peaceful participation, and respect for democratic outcomes.