ZAMBIA: Caritas Zambia Criticises Government, Calls Action On National Issues
Sandra Kunda
In a press statement issued on July 9, 2024, addressing public leaders and citizens, Caritas has emphasized its commitment to justice, human rights, and the common good.
The high cost of living was a primary concern, with Caritas Zambia criticizing the government’s response to the economic crisis and urging for pragmatic solutions to alleviate widespread poverty. The organization also addressed the issue of electricity load shedding, calling for an immediate halt to the exportation of electricity and advocating for the acceleration of solar power projects to support local economic activities.
Unstable fuel prices were highlighted as a major issue impacting the business environment and increasing the cost of living. Caritas Zambia urged authorities to stabilize fuel pricing mechanisms to support businesses and families.
Caritas further condemned the culture of disrespect and verbal abuse, particularly on social media, and called for equal protection for all citizens against such abuses. The shrinking democratic space in the country was also criticized, with Caritas Zambia urging the government to uphold democratic principles, allow political rallies, and accommodate diverse views in public media.
Police brutality was decried particularly the trend of arbitrary arrests targeting dissenting citizens and church activities. Caritas Zambia called for professionalism and impartiality within the police force, emphasizing the need for the police to act independently of political instructions.
The organization also highlighted the urgent need to address tribalism and regionalism, calling on public leaders to take proactive measures to promote unity and prevent ethnic divisions. Finally, Caritas Zambia criticized the selective application of laws and the arbitrary expulsion of nine opposition Members of Parliament, urging a return to fair and just legal practices.
Caritas Zambia’s statement reflects deep concern for the nation’s well-being and calls for concerted efforts from both the government and citizens to address these critical issues.
ENDS.
