President Hichilema Welcomes Catholic Bishops' Call for Peaceful Elections

President Hakainde Hichilema has welcomed a pastoral statement by the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB), praising the body's firm rejection of political violence, intimidation and hatred ahead of the country's forthcoming General Election.

In a statement issued by Chief Communications Specialist Clayson Hamasaka, the President said the bishops' message was fully aligned with his longstanding call for peaceful, free, fair and credible elections. He agreed that Zambia must never return to what he described as "the dark days of political violence, cadreism and fear."

The Head of State reaffirmed government's commitment to safeguarding peace and ensuring that every eligible Zambian is free to campaign and vote without intimidation. He expressed confidence that the upcoming poll would be conducted in a free, fair, transparent and credible manner.

President Hichilema called on all political parties, candidates and their supporters to reject violence in all its forms, uphold the rule of law, and treat one another with dignity and respect throughout the electoral process.

The President also urged the nation to continue mourning the late former Vice President and Acting President, His Honour Dr Guy Scott, with dignity and honour. He appealed to all Zambians to keep the bereaved family, relatives and friends in their prayers during this difficult period.