Republic of Zambia
Ministry of Labour and Social Security
Press Release (For Immediate Release)
PREACH PEACE; ELECTIONS SHOULD NOT DIVIDE US, PRESIDENT HICHILEMA PETITIONS THE CHURCH
Lusaka, Zambia, 21st December, 2025- President Hakainde Hichilema, has called on the Church to remain a central pillar in promoting national harmony and moral values, as he reaffirmed the New Dawn Government’s commitment to peace, unity and inclusive dialogue.
In a speech delivered on his behalf by Minister of Labour and Social Security, Brenda Mwika Tambatamba during the 24th anniversary of the Independent Churches of Zambia (ICOZ), President Hichilema said his Government regards all churches in Zambia as one body of Christ, whose shared responsibility is to promote peace, tranquility and love across the nation.
The Head of State said Government remains open to constructive dialogue and values the Church’s complementary role in fostering development and social harmony.
With few months left before the 2026 General Elections, President Hichilema implored the Church to intensify its message of peace, love and forgiveness, stressing that elections should never divide the nation.
“As the year draws to a close and the country moves toward the 2026 General Elections, the New Dawn Government calls upon the Church in Zambia to continue preaching peace, love, and forgiveness, which are core biblical principles upon which Christianity stands,”he said.
The Head of State commended the Independent Churches of Zambia for their active participation in matters relating to governance, including their submissions on the Constitution Amendment Bill No. 7 which he assented into law on December 18, 2025.
President Hichilema welcomed the views expressed by the Church on by-elections that differed from Government’s position, describing them as a positive demonstration of peaceful checks and balances that strengthen democracy.
“I noted one significant submission by the Independent Churches of Zambia opposing Bill 7, particularly their call for the continuation of by-elections, among other concerns, which reflects the important role of the Church in providing peaceful and harmonious checks and balances on the power of government,” The President said.
He appealed to the Church for continued partnership with Government, stressing that peace and unity must remain paramount before, during and after elections.
Independent Churches of Zambia president, Bishop Dr. David Masupa urged believers to be bold and actively contribute to the development of the country.
The Cleric encouraged Christians not to demean themselves, emphasizing that their role in society extends beyond church walls. Bishop Masupa called on believers to support the President, noting that the journey to servanthood is not always easy, as he recalled his own moments of persecution that tested his resolve.
The President was awarded a commemorative plaque symbolising a lion, in recognition of his resilience and leadership in conquering the many hurdles faced during his administration.
Issued by:
(Original Copy Signed)
Mwaka Ndawa (MS)
Principal Public Relations Officer
Ministry of Labour and Social Security
