Violence Has No Place in Elections

Civil society forum demands police accountability over Lusaka shooting and urges political leaders to protect peace ahead of polls

By Francis Maingaila

The Civil Society Elections Integrity Forum Zambia (CSEIFZ) has condemned acts of political violence in Lusaka that allegedly left a nine-year-old girl injured during an opposition political roadshow, warning that violence threatens the country’s democratic process ahead of the August 13 General Elections.

CSEIFZ Vice Chairperson and Executive Director of HANZ, Ms. Nakiwe Simpungwe, told Zambia24 that the reported shooting of nine-year-old Mercy Kunda was deeply concerning and showed the urgent need to protect innocent citizens during the election period.

Ms. Simpungwe said children and other members of the public should never be caught up in political confrontations, adding that elections should be a period where citizens freely exercise their democratic rights without fear or intimidation.

She called on the Zambia Police to provide a clear and transparent explanation of the circumstances surrounding the incident, particularly the reported use of live ammunition against civilians.

Ms. Simpungwe said citizens deserve answers on what led to the incident and whether the actions taken were in line with the police mandate to protect lives and maintain public safety.

She said accountability and professionalism from law enforcement agencies were critical in maintaining public confidence in the electoral process.

CSEIFZ also raised concern over a separate incident in Kabwata, where an aspiring Member of Parliament’s campaign centre was allegedly damaged by a political opponent.

The organisation described the reported attack as unacceptable, warning that acts of intimidation, destruction and violence undermine Zambia’s democratic values and create fear among citizens.

Ms. Simpungwe urged political party leaders to take responsibility for the conduct of their members and supporters by openly condemning violence and promoting peaceful campaigns.

She said political differences should be resolved through dialogue and democratic processes rather than threats, intimidation or acts of aggression.

The CSEIFZ Vice Chairperson warned that continued political violence could damage public trust in elections and weaken confidence in democratic institutions.

She stressed that elections must be conducted in an environment where citizens feel safe to participate, saying peace, tolerance and respect for human life must remain central values throughout the electoral period.

Ms. Simpungwe further called on the Zambia Police to act with transparency and fairness, while urging political leaders to demonstrate leadership by rejecting violence and ensuring their supporters uphold peace during campaigns.