CCMG Warns on Children in Campaigns

Warns practice may contravene Children’s Code Act as group urges political parties to keep minors away from rallies

By Francis Maingaila ♥️ 

Lusaka, Zambia24 -- (June 26, 2026) — The Christian Churches Monitoring Group (CCMG) has warned against parading children at political campaign events, saying the practice may contravene Zambia’s Children’s Code Act No. 12 of 2022, which prohibits exposing children to situations that risk their safety, dignity and welfare.

CCMG Programme Manager Peter Mwanangombe told Zambia24 that involving children in political campaigns is not advisable because such environments are often emotionally charged and can expose minors to intimidation, manipulation and potential harm, undermining their protection and wellbeing.

Mwanangombe said the increasing presence of children at rallies and campaign events, including appearances on stage with political leaders, raises serious child protection concerns.

Mwanangombe stressed that any involvement of children in political activities must be assessed against the “best interests of the child” principle under Section 3 of the Children’s Code Act No. 12 of 2022, which requires that all decisions involving children prioritise their welfare.

Mwanangombe cited Section 5 of the Act, which guarantees every child the right to life, dignity and respect, and Section 17, which protects children from all forms of maltreatment and exploitation, warning that campaign environments can be volatile and expose children to emotional and physical risks.

He further referenced Section 38, which places responsibility on parents and guardians to protect children from neglect, abuse and exploitation, arguing that allowing children to participate in campaign activities may not align with these legal obligations.

Mwanangombe said children should never be placed in situations where they are exposed to political hostility, violence or exploitation for political advantage.

He called on political parties and candidates to refrain from involving children as participants, symbols or visual elements in campaign activities, and urged parents and guardians to avoid taking children to rallies that may compromise their wellbeing.

Mwanangombe also appealed to the Electoral Commission of Zambia, the Zambia Police Service and other child protection authorities to strengthen enforcement of child protection laws during the electoral period.

Mwanangombe reiterated that strict adherence to the Children’s Code Act No. 12 of 2022 is essential to safeguarding children’s rights throughout the electoral process, urging all stakeholders to ensure children’s dignity, safety and development remain protected during campaign activities.