LUSAKA - The Church has cautioned political parties against predicting the outcome of Zambia's general election before citizens cast their votes, warning that premature declarations of victory could discourage voter participation.
Life Gospel Fellowship Ministry International Bishop Joseph Kazhila said political leaders should allow the electoral process to determine the will of the people through the ballot box, stressing that the final results must reflect the choice of the electorate.
Bishop Kazhila urged Zambians to exercise their democratic right peacefully and participate in the electoral process without being influenced by claims about likely winners.
He also called on leaders seeking public office to demonstrate respect, integrity and maturity in their public statements.
According to the bishop, the use of abusive language by some politicians sends the wrong message to citizens and falls short of the standards expected of those aspiring to lead the country.
He further urged political leaders to promote peace, respect and responsible dialogue, warning that hateful and inflammatory remarks have the potential to divide communities and heighten tensions.
Bishop Kazhila appealed to both political players and citizens to focus on finding peaceful solutions to the country's challenges instead of engaging in rhetoric that could undermine national unity during the election period.
Source: Sun FM Zambia | By: Hope Nyimbili