By 
The United Kwacha Alliance (UKA) has endorsed the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) pastoral letter, which highlights concerns over governance, democratic freedoms, judicial independence, and recent attacks on the Catholic Church.
The pastoral letter, issued on November 15, 2024, also addressed corruption, constitutional issues, and the state of the economy.
In a statement on Sunday, UKA Spokesperson, Jackson Silavwe, praised the ZCCB’s principled stance, saying its message reflects the cries of many Zambians for justice, equity, and peace.
“The Church has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to being the voice of the voiceless and a beacon of moral guidance in our society without political biases,” Silavwe stated.
He condemned recent attacks on the Church, including insults directed at Archbishop Dr. Alick Banda and other religious leaders.
Silavwe described the invasion of Church premises as violations of constitutional freedoms and threats to national unity.
“We call on the government to immediately halt all forms of interference in Church activities and issue a public apology for the actions of its operatives,” Silavwe added.
He emphasized that religious institutions should remain sanctuaries of peace and guidance free from political intimidation.
Silavwe also criticized proposed amendments to Section 70 of the Penal Code, calling them “draconian” and a threat to freedom of expression.
“UKA categorically rejects these provisions, which seek to muzzle dissent and silence criticism under the guise of curbing hate speech,” he said.
Silavwe urged the government to withdraw Penal Code Amendment Bill No. 17 of 2024 for a more inclusive review process.
Echoing the ZCCB’s concerns, Silavwe raised alarm over perceived bias in the judiciary’s handling of politically sensitive cases and intra-party disputes.
“The erosion of judicial independence undermines public confidence in the rule of law and poses a danger to the democratic principles our nation was built upon,” he warned.
UKA’s backing of the ZCCB’s pastoral letter adds to growing calls for accountability, respect for constitutional freedoms, and greater independence of democratic institutions in Zambia.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments