Activist advises against setting preconditions for genuine dialogue to happen between Hichilema, Lungu

The Advocates for Democratic Governance Foundation has called on Zambians to support the church-led initiative for dialogue between former President Edgar Lungu and President Hakainde Hichilema, emphasizing its importance for the nation’s stability.

Gideon Musonda, the foundation’s Executive Director, stated that genuine dialogue between the two leaders was crucial, especially at a time when Zambia faced economic struggles and other pressing challenges.

In a statement issued in Lusaka on Saturday, Musonda warned that without proper intervention, political divisions among their followers could escalate.

He called on the leaders to engage in meaningful discussions, away from media scrutiny, to foster unity and reconciliation.

“They should help create a conducive environment where unity in diversity thrives, especially as the country heads towards the politically charged 2026 general elections,” Musonda said.

He highlighted that dialogue between the two statesmen would be a key step in building consensus on constitutional and electoral reforms, essential for strengthening democratic governance in Zambia.

Musonda cautioned against setting preconditions for dialogue, noting that past failures in political mediation were often due to the perceived bias of mediators, lack of transparency, and the imposition of preconditions by the parties involved.

“Most previous failed dialogue attempts have been attributed to questioned neutrality of mediators and the setting of preconditions,” Musonda observed.

He urged all stakeholders to refrain from actions or comments that could undermine genuine efforts for dialogue and expressed confidence in the credibility of the institutions advocating for these talks.

“By supporting genuine dialogue, we can promote national unity and stability, address pressing economic and social challenges, and strengthen Zambia’s democratic foundations,” Musonda said.

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