JCTR EXPRESS CONCERN OVER CONTINUITY VIOLENCE

It is of great concern that lives of our citizens have been lost relating to political violence during this campaign period.

We would like to implore all citizens, especially political players, who have been mostly involved in political violence to STOP VIOLENCE FORTHWITH.

Since the campaigns started, four lives have been lost out of suspected political violence. Among the four, is a student from UNZA who was found unconscious after being beaten. This student later died at the hospital.

If anyone, thought political violence is just part of political strategy to win an election, we are pleading with such persons to think twice and realize that, these are human beings dying and suffering out of injuries and wounds. 

Political violence should not be part of a political strategy to advance chances of winning an election.

JCTR upholds the dignity of a human being and as such we condemn violence in the strongest term.

 Violence never brings permanent peace, it solves no social problem.

As JCTR we call for the quick release of the inquiry into the killing of a female UPND member last week. 

We also welcome the setting up of the inquiry and urge law enforcement agencies involved to remain impartial. In the same vein, we implore political parties to cooperate with the police in addressing political violence.

JCTR hopes that the reinstatement of political campaigns in Lusaka and Namwala districts will not bring back political violence witnessed before the suspension was effected by the ECZ.

JCTR urges all political parties to cooperate with ECZ’s efforts in addressing political violence as we draw near the elections. Political violence can lead to voter apathy, it can scary the investment in the country.

We expect the Police to be on top of things to maintain law and order regardless of the political affiliation. Hate speech or baseless campaign should not be entertained because they will not take the country anywhere.

Good elections require intelligent and responsible participation of all citizens and voters. 

The best party should do for the Zambian people during this campaign period is to ensure that they focus on issues and how they will contribute to the country's development.

Media and Information Officer Tendai Posiana