Bishop Mulandu calls for unity among political leaders
By Mast Reporter
MPIKA Diocese Bishop Right Reverend Father Edwin Mulandu has called for unity among political leaders, urging them to rise above partisan differences in the interest of national development.
Speaking during the 125th Anniversary Celebration of Chilonga Mission Saturday, Bishop Mulandu emphasised the importance of tolerance and mutual respect among political players as Zambia was approaching elections next year.
“Unity is crucial, even when you differ in opinion,” Bishop Milandu said.
He commenced opposition Patriotic Front (PF) acting president Given Lubinda and Citizens First leader Harry Kalaba for what he described as a public display of political maturity.
“I am happy to see Mr Lubinda and Mr Kalaba sitting together under one tent. You have shown the highest level of political maturity. I hope you go back to Lusaka like this,” he said.
Bishop Mulandu also appealed to the government to support Catholic schools and church-run projects across the country.
“Let’s end the notion that the Catholic Church is rich. We survive on pledges and offerings from the poor,” he said.
Meanwhile, Lubinda, the Tonse Alliance acting chairperson, described the 125th anniversary celebrations of Chilonga Mission as a significant milestone for the nation, noting that it served as a reminder of the roots of the Catholic Church in Zambia.
“This is not just a celebration for the Catholic faithful; it is a national occasion that reminds us where the Church began and how far it has come in contributing to the moral and social fabric of our country,” Lubinda said.
He highlighted the historical importance of Chilonga Mission, emphasising its connection to national leadership.
“Chilonga Mission holds a special place in our country’s history. It is here that the late president Michael Chilufya Sata was baptised, a fact that connects this sacred place to the leadership and legacy of our nation,” he said.
Lubinda also called on the Church to remain steadfast in its role of promoting national development and advocating for justice and equality.
“I urge the Church to continue being a voice for the voiceless, to support development efforts, and to stand firm in promoting social justice. The nation looks to the Church not only for spiritual guidance but also for moral leadership,” he said
And Kalaba applauded the Church for its ongoing contribution to Zambia’s development.
“The Church continues to be a moral compass in our society. Chilonga Mission has played a central role in the growth of the Catholic Church in Zambia,” he said.
