Zambia’s Catholic Bishops Call for Responsible Action, Dialogue and Peace Amid Growing Political Polarisation

The Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops called for responsible action, dialogue, and peace in a pastoral statement issued Wednesday, September 30. Following an extraordinary plenary meeting on September 29, the bishops expressed concern regarding growing political polarization and the use of ethnic identities and tribal sentiments for political gain.

The bishops also noted a shrinking space for freedom of expression, specifically for civil society and the media. They stated these developments risk deepening societal divisions and weakening trust between citizens and institutions. The statement was released during legal proceedings involving Archbishop Alick Banda of the Archdiocese of Lusaka.

The bishops said their position is rooted in Catholic teachings on human dignity, justice, and the common good. Citing the Second Vatican Council, they argued that political authority must serve the welfare of citizens and operate within the rule of law and truth. They concluded that the current situation requires action directed toward reconciliation and justice rather than silence or resignation.