President Hichilema Reiterates Commitment to Peaceful Elections

President Hakainde Hichilema has reaffirmed his government’s commitment to ensuring free, fair, credible, and peaceful elections.

Addressing the Fifth Session of the Thirteenth National Assembly on the progress made in applying national values and principles, President Hichilema called on political actors to uphold peace, tolerance, and unity. He emphasised that democracy must thrive on ideas, persuasion, and respect for divergent views.

The Head of State further urged citizens to demonstrate restraint, respect, and responsibility as the country heads to the polls in August this year. He appealed to Zambians to rise to the highest standards of patriotism, integrity, and peaceful coexistence before, during, and after the elections.

“As citizens, we must reject all forms of violence. We must all say no to hate speech. We must abhor cyber crimes. We must reject divisive politics. These vices have absolutely no place in our society,” President Hichilema stated.

He noted that under the UPND New Dawn administration, Zambia has witnessed an unprecedented reduction in political violence and cadreism.

“Under our watch, there is no room for political violence, no room for cadreism, and no room for lawlessness. Let me be clear: no one is above the law,” he said.

President Hichilema stressed that Government remains firm on preserving freedom of assembly and association, adding that peace is a prerequisite for development.

“Let us always choose unity over division. Let us choose dialogue and inclusion over conflict and insults. Let us choose progress over politicking,” he said.

He reiterated that Zambia’s stable and peaceful environment has already attracted unprecedented investment, translating into more jobs, businesses, and opportunities.