ZAMBIA: ZCCB President Warns Of Violence In 2021 General Elections

Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) President Rt. Rev. George Lungu says if nothing is done to arrest the current situation, Zambians should brace themselves for more violence during the 2021 General Elections.

Bishop Lungu who is also Bishop of Chipata Catholic Diocese says the situation has gotten worse, with people killing each other for by-elections.

“It is shameful that a life could be lost during a Council Chairperson by-election in Kaoma District, an indication that more violence is expected in 2021. The escalating cases of violence are a serious concern and should be addressed immediately,” he said.

Recently one person was shot dead during a local authority by-election in Kaoma district about 430 kilometres west of Zambia’s capital city, Lusaka.

Bishop Lungu says problems such as power load shedding, poor road network and lack of food in hospitals which the country is faced with call for special attention.

He also observed that development in the country is not equally shared as government has concentrated much on developing Lusaka the capital city, leaving other provinces with poor road infrastructure, saying the situation is fearful as more people are becoming angrier and more frustrated.

“The economic situation has deteriorated. Leaders should be truthful about what is happening in the country. We cannot talk about the load shedding from 4 to 6 hours per day to 8 to 12 hours? Next time it will be total blackout,” he added.

Bishop Lungu said this on Sunday, 20^th October, 2019 during his homily on the closure of the Year of Mission.

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Source: ZCCB Communications Office