Chief Mukupa Katandula of the Tabwa people of Kaputa District in Northern Province, has called on aspiring political candidates to conduct issue based campaigns and reject violence ahead of the August 13 general elections.
Speaking in an interview with the Zambia News and Information Services (ZANIS) in Kaputa today, Chief Mukupa Katandula said leadership should focus on service delivery and presenting concrete development plans rather than engaging in personal attacks and intimidation.
The traditional leader warned that political violence threatens peace and social cohesion in communities that depend on unity and customary conflict resolution mechanisms.
“Using violence during campaigns is outdated. Politicians need to tell the people what they plan to do for them,” Chief Mukupa Katandula said.
He further urged residents of Kaputa to reject violent politicians and embrace peaceful coexistence, noting that life continues after elections.
Chief Mukupa Katandula has also called on law enforcement agencies to take decisive action against political cadres involved in violence during the campaign period.
He also advised young people from all participating political parties against allowing themselves to be used as tools of violence, saying politicians would not protect them once arrested.
“When you engage in violence, you will get arrested alone, politicians will not be there to suffer with you,” he said.
The traditional leader further appealed for unity among all stakeholders participating in the elections, stressing that the priority should be fostering development in Kaputa District.
