Zambia : Retired Officers, Clergy And Academics Condemn Pre-election Violence
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NewsLusaka - Zambia: A group of retired senior military officers, clergy, academics and civil society figures has issued a joint statement condemning the
Headlines 2 min.Read Retired officers, clergy and academics condemn pre-election violence By Lusaka Times Editor August 7, 2026 FacebookTwitterPinterestWhatsAppA group of retired senior military officers, clergy, academics and civil society figures has issued a joint statement condemning the escalation of political violence ahead of Zambia’s August 13 general election, warning that the trend threatens the country’s standing as a beacon of regional stability.
The statement, dated 5 August 2026, carries nine signatures: retired Lt. Gen. Paul Mihova, Prof. Luke Mumba, retired Lt. Col. Prof. Naison Ngoma, retired Brig. Gen. Chapula, Bishop Paul Bupe, Father Chibubi, Prof. Clive Chirwa, governance activist Brebner Changala and Owen Mugemezulu.
The signatories noted that Zambia has held numerous elections that have demonstrated the resilience of its democratic traditions, and that isolated incidents of electoral violence in previous cycles had consistently been contained and condemned.
“It is this collective commitment to peace that has earned Zambia its longstanding reputation as a beacon of stability and democratic coexistence in the region,” the statement read.
They expressed deep concern over a marked escalation in violence associated with the current pre-election period, citing reports from Western, North-Western, Southern and Lusaka provinces, some of which they said had tragically resulted in loss of life.
“No Zambian should suffer intimidation, injury or death for exercising their constitutional rights, including the freedom to associate with and support a political party or candidate of their choice,” the group said, describing human life as sacred and requiring protection at all times.
Drawing on Zambia’s history of peaceful transitions, the signatories warned against following the destructive path seen elsewhere on the continent, insisting that political differences should be settled through dialogue rather than intimidation.
They said the coming election gives every eligible Zambian the chance to freely choose leaders capable of advancing national unity and inclusive development, and called for the process to guarantee the safety, dignity and participation of all citizens.
Four specific appeals were made: that parties and supporters exercise restraint; that law enforcement act impartially and hold perpetrators accountable; that the Electoral Commission continue promoting a transparent process; and that citizens remain calm and respect differing political views.
“As concerned, patriotic and loyal citizens, we look forward to peaceful, free and fair elections that reflect the will of the Zambian people and preserve our country’s democratic legacy,” the statement concluded.
The intervention adds to a growing chorus of appeals for calm from religious, legal and civil society bodies in the campaign’s closing week, following similar calls from the Human Rights Commission, the Law Association of Zambia and Bishop Joshua Banda.
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