Political Violence Threatens Democracy



ADEG condemns Kaputa and Magoye killings, urges urgent action from political actors and security agencies

By Francis Maingaila ♥️ 

Lusaka, Zambia24  -- (1-07-2026) --- The Advocates for Democratic Governance Foundation (ADEG) has condemned the recent incidents of political violence in Kaputa and Magoye, warning that continued attacks threaten Zambia's democratic credentials ahead of the elections.

ADEG Executive Director Gideon Musonda expressed concern over the fatal violence in Kaputa District, where a UPND supporter was killed, and the death of a driver for an independent candidate in Magoye, Mazabuka District, a case that remains under investigation by the Zambia Police Service.

Musonda said political violence had no place in a democratic society because it discourages citizen participation, creates fear among voters, and weakens public confidence in democratic institutions.

He said violence was a serious setback to Zambia's democracy and called on all political parties to take responsibility for the conduct of their members and supporters.

Musonda urged political leaders to exercise responsible leadership by putting in place measures to prevent violence and ensuring that individuals involved in such acts are not shielded from justice.

He said perpetrators of political violence should not be rewarded or protected by their political parties but should instead be reported to law enforcement agencies for prosecution.

Musonda stressed that the responsibility of delivering peaceful, secure and violence-free elections should not be left to the Zambia Police Service alone.

He said political parties, candidates, civil society organisations, traditional and religious leaders, the media and citizens all had a role to play in promoting peace, tolerance and respect for differing political views.

Musonda further appealed to political contestants and their supporters to avoid violence, intimidation and retaliation, even when provoked, saying political competition should be based on ideas and policies rather than force.

He also called on the Zambia Police Service to strengthen security in areas where campaigns are taking place and ensure that all perpetrators of political violence are investigated and brought to justice without fear or favour.

Musonda said Zambia had earned a reputation as a peaceful and tolerant democracy, adding that all stakeholders had a duty to protect and preserve that legacy.

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