Zambia's President Hichilema Pledges Peaceful & Credible Elections!
President Hakainde Hichilema has unequivocally assured Zambians that the upcoming general elections will be peaceful, credible, and fair, upholding the nation's esteemed tradition. Speaking at a Sabbath Music Fellowship, he expressed confidence in undisturbed August polls, promising a stark contrast to previous 'smoky' election periods while prioritizing national unity and interest.
President Hakainde Hichilema has emphatically reassured the people of Zambia that the nation's steadfast tradition of conducting peaceful, credible, and fair general elections will be meticulously upheld in the upcoming polls. Addressing the congregants during a Sabbath Music Fellowship organized by the Seventh Day Adventist Church at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka, President Hichilema underscored the importance of national unity throughout the election period, despite the ongoing political campaigns.
Expressing profound confidence in the smooth execution of the August polls, the Head of State affirmed that they would transpire without significant disruptions. He declared, "I can confirm and assure the people of Zambia that this election season will be peaceful. The nation will remain standing together. God will lead us through, we will have peaceful elections." This assertion came as a strong commitment to maintaining stability and harmony.
Acknowledging the potential for isolated instances where individuals might attempt to create trouble during campaigns, President Hichilema firmly insisted that the elections, overall, would remain peaceful. He reiterated, "We will keep the tradition of peaceful elections in our country. There shall be free, fair, credible and peaceful elections," thereby reinforcing the nation's democratic values.
Drawing a clear distinction from past electoral experiences, President Hichilema recalled the "smoky" incidences and prevalence of tear gas two months prior to the August 2021 vote. He promised a different and improved electoral environment this year, stating, "It was smoky. There was a lot of tear gas around. There was a lot of negative stuff. But this election shall be different, much better than the last time we had elections."
Furthermore, President Hichilema reminded Zambians that election campaigns serve as a vital opportunity for politicians to articulate their visions and plans for the country, emphasizing that national interest must always take precedence over personal agendas. In related news, a constitutional court decision dismissed a petition that had challenged President Hichilema’s eligibility to contest the August 13 poll, further setting the stage for the upcoming democratic exercise.