Catholic Bishops in Zambia Caution against Insults in Campaigns ahead of August General Elections

In the letter dated January 30, the Catholic Bishops in Zambia also highlight the Church’s role in politics and the non-partisanship of the members of the Clergy, saying, “The Church is not and must never be a mouthpiece for any political party or candidate.”

“Our duty is to form consciences, promote the common good, and speak truth to power,” ZCCB members say, warning that Clergy who align themselves with political interests risk compromising their sacred vocation.

To safeguard the Church from engaging in politics, the Catholic Bishops in Zambia emphasise that Church premises must not be used for political campaigns and that no Clergy or Lay leader should accept political donations in exchange for influence.

“The pulpit must remain a place of prophetic truth and moral clarity, not political opportunism.  Our churches shall always remain for all houses of prayer, reflection, and reconciliation, not partisan campaign platforms,” the Bishops say.

The Southern African nation is scheduled to hold its general elections on 13 August 2026, when eligible citizens are expected to vote to elect the president, members of the National Assembly, councillors, and council chairpersons.

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In the January 30 pastoral letter, the Catholic Bishops in Zambia urge the people of God in the country to vote for leaders of character and vision.

“We urge all voters to choose leaders who love Zambia and serve selflessly; who are committed to the fight against corruption and tribalism, protect the dignity of every Zambian regardless of tribe, religion, or status, and are honest, competent, and morally upright,” the Bishops say.

The Bishops urge Zambians to reject any candidate with a history of tribalism, corruption, manipulation, or division, saying, “We must ask: Can such a candidate be truly entrusted with the future of our nation?” 

Referring to the Catholic Social Teaching, the Bishops remind Zambians that authority is legitimate only when it seeks the common good.

In the letter, the Bishops also call for what they refer to as “a level playing field and fair access to public media”, decrying the abuse of state resources and institutions for “partisan advantage.” They say that the public media is not the property of the ruling party.

“Public media must offer fair coverage to all political parties. Unequal access to Zambia National Broadcasting Cooperation (ZNBC) and other taxpayer-funded media outlets is unjust and unacceptable,” the Bishops say.

They further urge all journalists and editors, both in public and private media, to uphold truth, fairness, and promotion of national unity, cautioning them against sensationalism, bias, and misinformation, which they say only deepen division. 

The Catholic Bishops in Zambia encourage every citizen to exercise their civic duty to vote and to keep themselves informed of governance matters, which they say affect everyone indiscriminately.

“We are calling on the youth, in particular, to rise, not in violence or apathy, but with vision, courage, and unwavering commitment to our motherland, Zambia,” the Bishops say.

They add, “We call on all Christians and people of goodwill to pray daily for our nation, for peaceful elections, and for visionary leadership. Let every religious gathering dedicate time to intercessions. Let every home invoke God's peace. Let every citizen seek God's guidance.” 

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Silas Mwale Isenjia is a Kenyan journalist with a great zeal and interest for Catholic Church related communication. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Linguistics, Media and Communication from Moi University in Kenya. Silas has vast experience in the Media production industry. He currently works as a Journalist for ACI Africa.