Clergy condemns political violence during nominations

LUSAKA – Battle Cry for Zambia, a significant voice within the nation's religious community, has issued a strong condemnation of the recent surge in political violence marring the Electoral Commission of Zambia (ECZ) electoral nominations. The clergy organization expressed profound dismay over the clashes and confrontations observed among political parties and their respective supporters, underscoring the critical need for a peaceful and orderly electoral environment. In a statement released to the press, representatives from Battle Cry for Zambia highlighted that such acts of aggression undermine the very fabric of Zambia's democratic principles. They stressed that nominations, a foundational step in any electoral cycle, should be characterized by civility and adherence to established legal frameworks, rather than intimidation and physical altercations. The group urged political leaders to exercise greater control over their cadres and to actively promote a culture of tolerance and respect among their followers. This condemnation comes at a crucial time as Zambia gears up for what is anticipated to be a highly contested election. The ECZ has been overseeing the nomination process across various constituencies, and reports of skirmishes, particularly in urban centres, have raised concerns among civil society organizations and peace advocates. Battle Cry for Zambia's intervention serves as a moral appeal to all political actors to prioritize national unity and stability over partisan interests. The clergy further called upon law enforcement agencies to act decisively and impartially against all perpetrators of violence, regardless of their political affiliation. They emphasized that a failure to address these incidents firmly could embolden further acts of lawlessness, thereby jeopardizing the integrity and credibility of the entire electoral process. The organization reiterated its commitment to praying for peace and actively engaging in initiatives that foster n