Zambia : UPND Opposes Planned Candlelight Prayer Event Ahead Of Elections

The United Party for National Development (UPND) has called for the cancellation of a planned candlelight prayer programme scheduled for August 12, 2026, one day before Zambia’s General Election.

In a letter addressed to Marian Shrine Chelstone priest Father Felix Banda and the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ), UPND Secretary General Batuke Imenda expressed concern over both the timing and nature of the event.

Mr. Imenda argued that candles and lamps are official symbols of some political parties participating in the August 13 General Election. He said holding a candlelight event on the eve of the polls could be perceived as carrying political significance rather than being purely a religious gathering.

He further warned that the event could attract supporters of the affected political parties, increasing the risk of the prayer meeting evolving into a political procession.

According to Mr. Imenda, the programme could also create anxiety among church members and the general public, who may interpret it as favouring certain political parties.

Meanwhile, on August 4, 2026, Father Felix Banda of the Archdiocese of Lusaka invited clergy, religious leaders and members of the public to participate in the candlelight prayers for peace, scheduled for August 12, ahead of the General Election.

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