Hichilema calls for peace and tolerance as Tonse Alliance campaigns in Southern Province

PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has called on Zambians to conduct political campaigns peacefully and with mutual respect ahead of the August 13, 2026 General Election. In a statement released by State House Chief Communications Specialist Clayson Hamasaka, the President said democracy thrives when "competing ideas are debated freely, citizens are persuaded rather than intimidated, and every

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PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has called on Zambians to conduct political campaigns peacefully and with mutual respect ahead of the August 13, 2026 General Election.

In a statement released by State House Chief Communications Specialist Clayson Hamasaka, the President said democracy thrives when “competing ideas are debated freely, citizens are persuaded rather than intimidated, and every political party is afforded an equal opportunity to seek the support of the people.”

Hichilema’s appeal comes as the opposition Tonse Alliance begins its campaign tour of Southern Province.

“As the opposition Tonse Alliance begins its campaign tour of Southern Province, the President particularly calls upon the people of the Province not to disrupt their activities,” Hamasaka said.

The President said those with whom Zambians disagree politically “remain our fellow citizens” and enjoy the same democratic rights to campaign, assemble and canvass for votes.

“Their lawful political activities must not be obstructed or disrupted,” he said.

“Our democracy is tested not merely by how we treat those with whom we agree, but, more importantly, by how we accommodate those with whom we disagree.”

Hichilema insisted the political contest “must be about ideas, policies and the future of our country, not confrontation, intimidation or violence.” He reminded citizens that “Zambia belongs to all of us and that our shared peace and unity must always rise above our political differences.”

The President called on all Zambians regardless of political affiliation to uphold the values that have long defined the nation.

“Let democracy prevail. Let peace prevail. Let Zambia remain united,” he said.

The statement follows recent calls from civil society and the Church for political leaders and law enforcement to curb politically motivated violence ahead of the polls.

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