By OLIVER SAMBOKO
POLITICAL parties taking part in next month’s general election have been commended for committing to peaceful campaigns ahead of the polls.
Coalition for Peaceful Election in Zambia(CPEZ) said that it was happy that political parties had signed the peace pledge to commit themselves as leaders and their membership to peaceful campaigns before, during and after the August 12 2021 elections.
This is contained in a statement obtained by the Daily Nation.
“As a Coalition we are happy to note that our leaders remain committed to ensuring the continued prevalence of peace in the country,” the coalition stated.
The Coalition said political party leaders have reaffirmed and rekindled the spirit of Zambia founding fathers, including Kenneth Kaunda, who envisaged a peaceful Zambia for all, regardless of colour, creed, language, religion, gender or political affiliation.
The coalition further noted that multipartyism should be about the competition of ideas and not violence.
“We therefore look forward to more issue-based campaigns, devoid of character assassination and cyber-bullying, especially of women candidates, ahead of the August polls,” the coalition said.
The coalition said the importance of peace before, during and after the elections could not be over-emphasised adding that peace was a critical ingredient of a more inclusive and participatory democracy and ultimately sustainable development of Zambia.
“The Coalition therefore appeals to members of all the political parties to emulate their leaders’ commitment and ensure peaceful campaigns and elections.
“We further call upon the political party leaders to ensure that they actualize their pledge by demilitarizing the youth wings of their respective political parties,” the coalition said.
The coalition would continue to engage the political party leaders on the need to continue to promote an environment for peaceful elections and to also embrace equitable participation of women, men and youth at all levels.
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