THE Government’s warning that no election is worth killing or dying for is both timely and necessary. Elections should be a peaceful contest of ideas, policies and leadership, not a struggle in which political opponents are treated as enemies. Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana is therefore right to remind citizens that elections come and go, while the consequences of violence can permanently destroy families and communities.
However, condemning violence is only the first step. Political leaders must speak directly to their supporters, reject violent language within their parties and ensure that those who incite attacks are held accountable, regardless of their political affiliation.
The call for law enforcement agencies to act against instigators is equally important. The law must be applied fairly and consistently. Selective enforcement can deepen mistrust and create the impression that political connections determine who is arrested, prosecuted or protected. The Law Association of Zambia has similarly called for impartial investigations and enforcement against perpetrators, sponsors and instigators of electoral violence.
The Government’s concern about political parties disregarding the Electoral Commission of Zambia’s campaign timetable also deserves attention.
Campaign schedules exist to prevent clashes, manage security and give all contestants a fair opportunity to engage voters.
Parties that knowingly campaign outside their assigned areas risk creating unnecessary tension and should be directed to comply. At the same time, enforcement of the timetable must be transparent and even-handed so that no party feels unfairly targeted.
Political parties should also remember that their supporters are citizens first. A rally may end after a few hours, but injuries, destroyed property and broken relationships can last for years.
Young people, in particular, should not be recruited into political violence or used as tools for settling disputes among political elites. Faith leaders have made a similar appeal, urging young people to participate democratically without allowing politicians to exploit them.
Ultimately, peace is a shared responsibility. Government must provide impartial security, the ECZ must enforce the rules, political parties must control their supporters, the media must report responsibly and citizens must reject provocation.
Zambia’s reputation for peaceful elections is valuable, but it cannot be preserved through history alone. It must be protected by responsible conduct before, during and after every vote.
The strongest election victory is not one achieved through intimidation. It is one secured through ideas, public trust and the free choice of citizens.
