PEACE PLEDGE PUT TO THE TEST

ZCID challenges political parties to turn commitments into action as tensions rise ahead of Zambia’s August 13 General Elections

By Francis Maingaila ♥️
Lusaka, Zambia24  -- Zambia24 -- 7-08-2026 -- The Zambia Centre for Interparty Dialogue (ZCID) has called on political parties, candidates, supporters and all stakeholders to reject violence, exercise restraint and uphold peace as Zambia moves closer to the August 13 General Elections.

ZCID Executive Director Doreen Njovu Kabwe said the situation was particularly disappointing because it comes shortly after political party leaders signed a National Peace Pledge committing themselves to tolerance, respect for democratic principles and non-violence throughout the electoral process.

Ms Kabwe said ZCID had noted with concern the rising political tensions and continued reports of acts of violence ahead of the elections, warning that such actions threaten to undermine Zambia’s democratic values, national unity and the credibility of the electoral process.

She said the peace pledge signed by political leaders must go beyond a public commitment and should be reflected in the conduct of political parties, candidates and supporters across the country.

Ms Kabwe urged political parties to ensure that the message of peace reaches their grassroots structures, reminding members and supporters that political competition should be based on ideas and policies rather than confrontation and hostility.

She also called on law enforcement agencies to act swiftly against individuals involved in violent acts, saying accountability was critical in maintaining public confidence and protecting the country’s democratic gains.

Ms Kabwe noted that there was sufficient information, including video evidence circulating in the public domain, which could assist authorities in accelerating investigations and bringing perpetrators to book.

ZCID said elections and other democratic processes must be conducted in an atmosphere of tolerance, mutual respect, dialogue and peaceful political participation, regardless of political affiliation or differing views.

The organisation further urged political parties, aspiring candidates, supporters and all electoral stakeholders to demonstrate responsibility, maturity and civility during the remaining campaign period.

ZCID emphasised that no political contest should result in violence, intimidation or any form of conduct that threatens peace and national unity.

The organisation also encouraged political leaders across the divide to focus on issue-based campaigns and constructive dialogue instead of inflammatory statements and actions that could deepen divisions among citizens.

As an institution mandated to promote interparty dialogue and peaceful political engagement, ZCID reaffirmed its commitment to supporting efforts aimed at strengthening political tolerance, national unity and democratic consolidation before, during and after the elections.