The Reformed Church in Zambia (RCZ) in Lumezi District in Eastern has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, unity and national cohesion ahead of the August 13 General Elections, urging citizens to maintain harmony before, during and after the polls.
RCZ Tamanda Presbytery Moderator Reverend Lovemore Daka said the church remains committed to fostering peaceful coexistence among communities and encouraging members to uphold values that promote national unity.
Reverend Daka further cautioned congregants against engaging in activities that could tarnish the image and reputation of the Church, stressing the need for Christians to serve as ambassadors of peace and integrity in society.
He was speaking during a welcoming service for Evangelist, Patrick Mbewe at the Reformed Church in Zambia’s Lumezi Congregation.
“We need to make sure that unity and peace prevail before, during and after the elections. Remember, Tamanda is a peaceful Presbytery and we should continue upholding those values,” Reverend Daka
said.
The Presbytery Moderator noted that peaceful elections are a shared responsibility and called on church members to reject political violence, hate speech and any form of conduct that could divide communities.
And officiating at the event, United Party for National Development (UPND), Lumezi North Parliamentary candidate, Anderson Banda commended the church for its continued efforts in promoting peace, unity and inclusiveness among people regardless of their political affiliation.
Mr Banda said President Hakainde Hichilema has consistently preached peace, unity and reconciliation while emphasising the importance of embracing the country’s “One Zambia, One Nation” motto.
“President Hakainde Hichilema has been preaching peace and unity and emphasising the need to embrace the One Zambia, One Nation motto. It is therefore important for all citizens to follow suit and contribute to a peaceful electoral process,” he said.
Mr Banda further assured the gathering that he would conduct issue-based campaigns and would not resort to violence or inflammatory rhetoric.
The event attracted church leaders, congregants, and other guests who gathered to officially welcome Evangelist, Patrick Mbewe to the Lumezi Congregation.
