PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has welcomed a pastoral statement by the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops that rejects political violence, intimidation and hatred ahead of the country's general election. This is according to a press statement issued by Clayson Hamasaka, State House Chief Communications Specialist. The Head of State said the bishops' position aligns with his

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PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has welcomed a pastoral statement by the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops that rejects political violence, intimidation and hatred ahead of the country’s general election.

This is according to a press statement issued by Clayson Hamasaka, State House Chief Communications Specialist.

The Head of State said the bishops’ position aligns with his longstanding call for peaceful, free, fair and credible elections.

“The president agrees that Zambia must never return to the dark days of political violence, cadreism and fear,” the statement said.

The government remains committed to safeguarding peace and ensuring every eligible Zambian can campaign and vote without intimidation, it said. Hichilema expressed confidence the upcoming general election will be conducted in a free, fair, transparent and credible manner.

The president called on all political parties, candidates and supporters to reject violence, uphold the rule of law and treat one another with dignity and respect throughout the electoral process.

The statement also urged Zambians to continue mourning former Vice President and acting president Guy Scott “with dignity, honor and respect,” and to keep his family in prayers during this period.

Scott died recently. He served as acting president in 2014-2015.

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