President Hakainde Hichilema has called on Zambians to embrace unity, compassion and forgiveness as guiding principles for national development.
President Hichilema said this today during the Easter Service held at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Lusaka.
The Easter celebration, attended by government officials, clergy and members of the public, centered on reflection, renewal of faith and the importance of peaceful coexistence among citizens.
Speaking during the service, President Hichilema said Easter provides an opportunity for believers to reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and recommit themselves to serving others with humility and love.
The Head of State urged citizens to reject division and instead promote national solidarity, noting that Christian values should guide both personal conduct and national progress.
“We must extend care, compassion and forgiveness to others at all times because that is what it means to be true followers of Christ,” he said.
President Hichilema further encouraged citizens facing personal and social challenges to seek support from families, communities and the church, stressing that no one should face difficulties alone.
President Hichilema noted that leadership comes with challenges, adding that no one is exempt from life’s difficulties and that citizens should support one another during trying times.
“When you face problems, remember you are not alone, talk to someone, share your burden and choose peace over conflict, unity over division and inclusivity over exclusivity,” he said.
The President emphasised that national unity remains essential for building a stable and prosperous Zambia, adding that collective responsibility and mutual respect are key to sustaining development.
Delivering the sermon, Anglican Church Archbishop, the Most Reverend Albert Chama said the resurrection of Jesus Christ remains the cornerstone of Christian faith and a reminder of God’s power over life and death.
Rev Chama explained that Christ’s appearance to his disciples after the resurrection brought peace, hope and renewed purpose at a time when they were fearful and uncertain.
“The resurrection of Jesus Christ set the Church on a mission to the world, calling believers to carry hope, love and the message of salvation to all people,” Rev Chama said.
He urged Christians to live out their faith through acts of compassion, reconciliation and service to humanity, adding that the Church has a responsibility to respond to human needs within communities.
The Easter service concluded with prayers for national unity, peace and continued guidance for Zambia’s leadership as the country strives toward a united and prosperous future.
Have you ever sat with the opposition in your whole tenure to forster unity with the opposition? Chifumu Banda made a passionate appeal for dialogue at Edith Nawakwi’s funeral and nothing has happened. You are the only President who has not used the platform in place for dialogue, the Zambia Center for interparty dialogue. And here you are calling for unity, in words only and not action
Demonstrate unity first, then call for it
Words without meaning