Sacred Push for Justice

Church champions inclusive governance and online safety

By Francis Maingaila

Lusaka, Zambia24 - 07-05-2025) - The Apostles Council of Churches, a recognized Church Mother Body in Zambia, has thrown its weight behind the government’s proposed constitutional amendments, citing the urgent need to enhance governance, inclusivity, and national development ahead of the next general elections.

Speaking at a press briefing in Lusaka, the Council’s Chairperson for the Apostles Council of Churches, Apostle Evans Kaping'a, said the proposed changes—particularly the introduction of proportional representation—would create a more equitable political system and ensure broader participation of marginalized groups such as women, youth, and persons with disabilities.

“We strongly support the introduction of proportional representation as it offers a more inclusive and equitable electoral system,” Apostle Kaping'a said.

“This approach will end the historic exclusion of marginalized groups from the political process due to financial constraints and cultural barriers.”

He stressed that enshrining proportional representation in law would make it mandatory to increase the number of women and youths in governance, guaranteeing their voices are heard and their interests represented in decision-making processes.

In addition to electoral reforms, the Church Mother Body backed other proposed constitutional changes aimed at strengthening governance, promoting justice, and building a more transparent and accountable political framework.

Apostle Kaping'a described 2025 as a “unique window of opportunity” to make meaningful changes that would benefit future generations.

He warned that delaying the constitutional reform process would only “postpone progress and perpetuate challenges the country is seeking to overcome.”

“We urge all stakeholders to rise above personal interests and hidden agendas and commit to building a better and more inclusive Zambia,” he said.

The Apostles Council of Churches also endorsed the Cybersecurity and Cybercrimes Act, describing it as a critical tool for protecting citizens in the digital era.

Apostle Kaping'a dismissed public fears that the law is meant to silence dissent, arguing instead that it is designed to curb cyberbullying, hate speech, and online criminal behavior.

“Zambia needs good laws to safeguard our cyber spaces,” he said. “With the cyber law in place, digital platforms will be free of bullying and abusive language, enabling citizens to use social media more freely.”

He called on “all well-meaning Zambians to support the cyber law,” explaining that it is meant to promote responsible digital citizenship and protect personal data, especially for vulnerable users such as children.

He further emphasized that there is no need to alarm the nation, adding that the Cybersecurity and Cybercrimes Act is a good and noble law intended for the safety of all. Apostle Kaping’a reiterated the church’s continued support for government policies, so long as they are rooted in the common good and national development.

Meanwhile, Elim Tabernacle Church overseer Bishop Dr. John Lungu refuted suggestions that the Church is divided on the proposed constitutional amendments.

“The Church is one,” Bishop Lungu said. “It cannot be divided—it stands on truth, reconciliation, and unity of purpose.”

He urged the government to reflect on the different voices of Zambians and give them enough time to contribute meaningfully to the constitutional reform process.