Zambia’s church leaders have condemned derogatory remarks against faith leaders criticizing the government for poor resource management and infrastructure issues. They affirmed their moral obligation to advocate for social justice and are urging the government to address systemic poverty and prioritize public involvement in constitutional reforms. Tensions have arisen particularly with Bishop Phiri, who has been vocal about governance shortcomings.
Church leaders in Zambia have expressed strong disapproval of derogatory comments directed at faith leaders who have criticized the government regarding issues such as resource allocation and infrastructure deficiencies. In a statement issued on March 19, representatives from notable organizations including the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB), the Council of Churches in Zambia (CCZ), and the Evangelical Fellowship of Zambia (EFZ) emphasized the church’s role in advocating for the voiceless.
The statement, signed by church leaders including Rev. Emmanuel Chikoya, Bishop Andrew Mwenda, and Father Francis Mukosa, articulated concern over the unaccounted attacks on church figures. They condemned the disrespectful language being utilized against clergy, stating it is vital to maintain the dignity of all individuals, emphasizing the church’s role in providing necessary checks and balances within the society.
Auxiliary Bishop Gabriel Msipu Phiri has notably been embroiled in tensions with the government due to his outspoken criticism of road infrastructure in Eastern Province. Phiri pointed out significant delays in road rehabilitations and issues with fertilizer distribution, crucial for the region’s agrarian economy, which have impeded farmer welfare significantly.
In response to Bishop Phiri’s criticisms, governmental spokesman Cornelius Mweetwa issued a threatening remark, stating intentions to isolate Phiri for his challenges to the government. Meanwhile, Father Augustine Mwewa affirmed Phiri’s position, clarifying that his sermons reflect the broader consensus of the Catholic Church and the Pope, urging against retaliatory measures from the government.
The March 19 statement confirmed that church leaders are steadfast in their moral duty to address national issues according to scriptural teachings, not influenced by external pressure. They reiterated their commitment to providing insightful and balanced guidance on public matters while actively supporting their congregants through pastoral care and moral teachings.
Moreover, church authorities criticized the government’s “hasty” constitutional amendment processes and the rising cost of living, questioning why such significant changes are being made without public involvement. They raised alarms over a growing culture of miscommunication and militant behaviors in socio-political discourse, emphasizing the need for a stronger dialogue on reconciliation and national unity.
The church leaders reaffirmed their autonomy from political pressures, asserting their right to voice concerns as they deem appropriate. They called on the government to address systemic poverty and work toward sustainable energy solutions and effective strategies for alleviating poverty in Zambia. The collective statement resonates a firm expectation for the government to uphold its responsibility towards the citizenry.
The original report appeared on ACI Africa.
In conclusion, Zambia’s church leaders have taken a stand against derogatory remarks aimed at faith leaders who criticize government actions. They reaffirmed their commitment to championing social justice and holding authorities accountable, while emphasizing the importance of maintaining dialogue on pressing national issues. Their statement calls for government responsiveness to public concerns, particularly regarding poverty alleviation and civic engagement in constitutional processes.
Original Source: www.catholicworldreport.com
