Stop arbitrary arrests, detentions – Catholic Bishops

…warns of deepening divisions in the country, express grave concern about political polarization, manipulation of ethnic, tribal identities, fear the growing undemocratic traits from the current leadership By MUBITA KATETE THE Catholic has raised alarm on a range of political and governance concerns, including the increasing political polarization, the manipulation of ethnic identities and tribal sentiments, fear being instilled among citizens, the shrinking space for freedom of expression and the credibility and transparency of the electoral process with its conduct and management of the 2026 general election. The Catholic Church has also said it is gravely concerned about the restrictions about access to justice and the perception that the institutions of governance and the rule of law are being eroded. The Catholic Church has further expressed deep concerns about the difficulties faced by the opposition political parties and political actors, including the harassment, restrictions and arrests as well as intimidation, political violence and cadreism. The Church says it is equally gravely concerned about the continued arbitrary arrests, detentions and the presence of military personnel in civilian spaces and the unlawful excessive use of force, including the loss of civilian lives at the hands of the State. In a pastoral statement yesterday, the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) warned of growing political polarisation, restrictions on civic freedoms and weakening public trust in institutions. The Catholic Church leadership said Zambia was facing a moment that required sober reflection, courage, responsibility and a renewed commitment to the common good. The bishops said they had listened to the concerns, fears and hopes of citizens before deciding to speak with one voice. “Our purpose is not to deepen political divisions or to take sides in partisan struggles,” the statement said. “It is to contribute, as the Church has consistently sought to do, to the protection of human dignity, the strengthening of justice and peace, the defence of truth, and the preservation of our national unity.” The ZCCB said increasing political polarisation was weakening dialogue and cooperation, while the manipulation of ethnic identities and tribal sentiments for political purposes was threatening the spirit of “One Zambia, One Nation.” They also expressed concern about fears among citizens relating to personal security, freedom of expression, employment and the consequences of expressing political opinions. The bishops said democracy required space for alternative political voices and peaceful political participation. The Church leaders said the developments they had highlighted risked weakening trust between citizens and public institutions and deepening divisions in society. They called for urgent action, saying the country needed peace, justice, reconciliation and a renewed commitment to the common good. The Catholic Bishops also addressed debates surrounding constitutional provisions relating to presidential terms of office, saying the issue had generated anxiety about constitutional safeguards and democratic continuity. “Public institutions must be instruments of justice and service rather than sources of fear,” the bishops said. The bishops appealed to political leaders to put the common good above partisan interests and reject inflammatory language, tribalism, violence and political intolerance. They also urged citizens to resist provocation and reject hatred, tribalism and violence, while warning against the misuse of social media to spread misinformation, disinformation and insults. The Church further called for greater protection of freedom of expression and association, responsible journalism and the legitimate work of civil society. On the electoral front, the bishops called for processes to be reviewed and strengthened wherever necessary so that citizens can have confidence that their votes are protected and electoral outcomes are managed transparently and credibly. The bishops proposed a sustained process of national dialogue, reconciliation and healing involving people and institutions across political, ethnic, religious and social divides. They further called for stronger peace-building initiatives at national, provincial, diocesan, community and grassroots levels. The statement also urged greater support for people and families affected by violence, arbitrary detention, intimidation and other forms of injustice, alongside a stronger culture of accountability and responsible leadership. “We commit ourselves to continued prayer, listening, dialogue and follow-up action, in accordance with our pastoral responsibility and the mission entrusted to the Church,” they said. The statement was signed by Most Rev. Ignatius Chama, ZCCB Secretary; Rt. Rev. Charles Kasonde, Archbishop of Kasama and ZCCB President; Rt. Rev. George Lungu, Bishop of Chipata; Rt. Rev. Clement Mulenga, SDB, Bishop of Kabwe; Rt. Rev. Patrick Chisanga, OFM Conv, Bishop of Mansa; Rt. Rev. Edwin Mulandu, Bishop of Mpika; Rt. Rev. Raphael Mweempwa, Bishop of Monze; and Rt. Rev. Gabriel Msipu Phiri, Auxiliary Bishop of Chipata.

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