LUSAKA-(MaraviPost)-The Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) has issued a strong condemnation of the violence that erupted in Chingola during a rally addressed by President Hakainde Hichilema.
In their statement, the bishops expressed deep concern over the scenes captured in a circulating video that showed a group of angry youths—believed to be small-scale miners—throwing stones toward the stage where the President was speaking.
They warned that such actions reflect a dangerous rise in political aggression and what they termed the resurgence of “cadreism,” a form of politically motivated mob conduct that Zambia has struggled with for years.
The bishops stressed that no form of grievance can justify hostility, violence, or attempts to disrupt public events.
They urged citizens to embrace peace, dialogue, and restraint, emphasizing that Zambia’s social and moral fabric depends on civility and non-violence.
At the same time, the ZCCB called on the police and other law-enforcement agencies to handle the matter with fairness and impartiality.
They cautioned against “selective justice,” noting that unequal application of the law fuels public mistrust and political tension.
With the 2026 general elections drawing closer, the bishops said the resurgence of politically linked violence is “deeply worrying” and urged political actors, supporters, and the general public to commit to peaceful engagement.
They reminded the nation that democracy can only thrive where freedom of expression, security, and respect for human dignity are upheld.
