Zambian Catholic Diocese Raises Concern Over Court Closures, Political Tensions After August Elections

In brief

Bishop George Cosmas Zumaire Lungu of the Chipata Diocese has called for dialogue, justice, and reconciliation in Zambia following political tensions after the August 13 elections. In a pastoral statement released Tuesday, September 15, the bishop said the closure of court premises and recent political events have caused citizens to feel anxiety and uncertainty about the nation's direction.

The tensions followed the declaration of President Hakainde Hichilema as the winner with approximately 60 percent of the vote. His challenger, Brian Mundubile, rejected the results and alleged irregularities during the counting process. On August 24, the final day for filing a presidential election petition, Zambia's courts were closed, which prevented the opposition from challenging the election results through the legal system.

Bishop Zumaire Lungu noted that opposition figures, including Mundubile, have faced arrest and treason charges. The bishop stated that members of the Catholic Church cannot remain indifferent when the fundamental values required for a peaceful and democratic society are under strain.