By 
The House of Chiefs in the country has called on the clergy to promote unity among citizens rather than perpetuating the divisions of the past.
House of Chiefs Chairperson, Chief Chisunka, said it is regrettable to witness political motivated statements from certain religious leaders, especially when such messages lead to divisions among the people.
Chief Chisunka in a statement issued in Lusaka on Monday said this poses a significant threat to the country’s unity.
The traditional leader said the country can not ignore the unfortunate history where some members of the clergy identified themselves as Christians for specific individuals and engaged in partisan attacks against political leaders.
“There is need to address this painful history and with a clear mind and ask whether those who criticize now did also condemn the Gas attacks on innocent citizens,” he said.
Chief Chisunka asked whether those criticizing the current regime also defended the widows and other victims who suffered brutalization and murder at the hands of political thugs.
He questioned whether the critics of President Hakainde Hichilema also shed light on the abuse and misappropriation of public resources and the irresponsible borrowing that had plunged the country into massive debt.
“If these issues were not addressed in the past, what moral authority do they possess to criticize a simple and harmless graph used by the President to convey an idea to the citizens,” the traditional leader said.
Chief Chisunka urged all religious leaders to prioritize preaching the principles of social justice alongside messages of reconciliation and peace, while enjoying the same freedoms and civil liberties as any other citizen.
“Those in positions of authority should be open to constructive criticism, and those offering criticism should engage in rational and respectful discussions,” he said.
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