By BARNABAS ZULU
PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to upholding freedom of worship, stating that it is against ecclesiastical teachings to stop any from church gathering to worship God.
Speaking during the 60th United Church of Zambia (UCZ) Golden Jubilee in Kabwe yesterday, President Hichilema assured the church that the freedom of worship is protected both constitutionally and morally.
“I want to say something here to clear the air — that this government assures the church, assures the body of Christ of the freedom of worship,” he said. “This is a constitutional obligation and this government will not walk away from that.”
The Head of State said any misunderstanding regarding relations between the government and the church should always be viewed within this constitutional framework.
“Any misunderstanding that will arise must be dealt with in this context — that this government will always ensure the freedom of worship. It is our obligation enshrined in our republican constitution, but also our moral duty to God, our creator,” President Hichilema stated.
He called for collaboration between the state and the church to build a nation where citizens thrive in all aspects of life.
“Together, let’s build a Zambia where every citizen strives — spiritually, economically, and socially.
All of this combined together, your government is here to work with you and other churches,” he said. “May God continue to bless the United Church of Zambia? May God continue to bless our beloved Zambia?”
President Hichilema also revealed that he was personally funding the construction of a school at Lubwa Mission in Kasama, explaining that the initiative was meant to improve service delivery.
“I decided to use my personal resources, not government resources, because they belong to the people,” he said.
The President urged Zambians to remain united.
“Let us continue to work together in unity — that is the only way to maintain peace and move our country forward,” he said.
