Catholic Church Holds Candlelight Prayers for Peace Ahead of Elections

118 ViewsThe Roman Catholic Church has held a candlelight prayer session for peaceful elections, just hours before Zambia goes to the polls on Thursday, August 13. The prayer gathering comes amid heightened political tensions and concerns over the possibility of electoral violence. The candlelight prayers, however, became controversial after the ruling party reportedly sought to […]

118 Views

The Roman Catholic Church has held a candlelight prayer session for peaceful elections, just hours before Zambia goes to the polls on Thursday, August 13.

The prayer gathering comes amid heightened political tensions and concerns over the possibility of electoral violence.

The candlelight prayers, however, became controversial after the ruling party reportedly sought to stop the activity, arguing that the lamp or light could be associated with the symbol of the opposition NRP-UP and some independent candidates.

The controversy has drawn attention to the symbolism of the candlelight, although the Catholic Church’s stated purpose has been to pray for peace, unity and a peaceful electoral process.

A check by the Zambian Eye at several Catholic churches around Lusaka found congregants gathered in prayer and worship as the country prepares for tomorrow’s election.

At some of the churches, members could be heard singing about “the people having seen the light” as candles were held during the prayers.

The scenes come against the backdrop of an increasingly tense political environment, with competing claims from the ruling party and opposition over the conduct of the electoral process.

Zambia is scheduled to hold its General Election on Thursday, August 13, 2026, according to the Electoral Commission of Zambia’s official election timetable.

The candlelight prayers have therefore taken on a wider significance for many worshippers, who say their focus is not politics but a peaceful election and the wellbeing of the country.

Zambian Eye will continue monitoring developments ahead of Thursday’s vote.