DON’T LET VIOLENCE DESTROY US
…Catholic Archdiocese of Lusaka warns that unchecked violence and selective justice endanger the nation’s future
By Thandizo Banda
THE recourse to political violence is increasingly becoming the mainstream in Zambian politics lately, the Catholic Archdiocese of Lusaka has observed.
The Archdiocese of Lusaka said in a statement it consistently and globally condemns all forms of political violence, viewing it as fundamentally incompatible with the Christian faith and a threat to human dignity, peace, and democracy.
“…all who live by the sword will perish by the sword” (Matthew 26:52). Jesus didn’t advocate violence or commit any violent acts except when he cleansed the temple, justly so,” the statement reads.
The Catholic Church further stated that Jesus did not enjoy seeing the weak oppressed nor the innocent suffer, saying He denounced violence, even asking one of his disciples, Simon Peter to holster his sword rather than fight for His Lord.
“Jesus was deeply aware that only love could conquer violence. Love is what the people of Zambia need to see because it is what we don’t have in Zambian politics right now,” it stated.
The Archdiocese of Lusaka expressed deep concern and condemnation of the violent attack on the acting president of the Patriotic Front (PF), Given Lubinda, in Kabwe, allegedly perpetrated by suspected United Party for National Development (UPND) cadres.
“Violence, in any form and by any group, is a direct affront to the dignity of human life and the democratic values upon which our nation is founded on. It must never be condoned, normalized, or politicized. We appeal to the conscience of the public, law enforcement agencies, and those in government to treat this matter with the seriousness it demands,” the statement said.
The Lusaka Archdiocese noted that once violence is allowed to fester, it becomes increasingly difficult to contain, noting that the events in Kabwe and hardly a week after the stoning of President Hakainde Hichilema in Chingola, were not isolated incidences.
“They reflect a troubling pattern that, if left unchecked, risks plunging our country into deeper divisions and polarization, especially as we approach the 2026 general elections.”
“Truth be told the future of this nation is perilously hanging in the balance on account of political violence. We therefore urge a swift, transparent, and impartial investigation into the incident. All those involved must be brought to book, regardless of political affiliation. Selective application of justice undermines public trust and fuels further unrest. We further appeal to law enforcement agencies to engage in de-escalation techniques when in the line of duty and avoid all forms of overzealousness and pre-emption amidst rising national discontent in the country among disenchanted youth.
To the general public and the youth: We call upon all citizens to remain calm, reject violence, and denounce the culture of cadreism that continues to threaten our peace and unity. Even in the face of endemic unemployment which is exploited by politicians to champion violence among disenchanted youth, we call for self-restraint among youth, and to avoid being used for political expediency”.
The Lusaka Atchidiocese demanded a detailed report on what transpired in Kabwe and Chingola, including the actions taken against the perpetrators.
“ This is a matter of urgency and national interest. The public deserves to be informed,” it concluded.
