Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
The United Church of Zambia (UCZ) has called for peaceful and corruption free elections.
Addressing a media briefing in Lusaka today, UCZ Secretary General Reverend Dr Peggy Kabonde says as a Christian nation, there is need to uphold the principle of love and tolerance towards each other during campaigns.
Rev Kabonde has urged political parties to refrain from any violent and provocative activities stating that democracy is about respecting the rule of law and allowing the voters to have a clear and informed mind to exercise their free will to choose a candidate of their choice.
She adds that the church will continue to encourage its members to participate in the forthcoming presidential election.
She says staying away from voting means allowing someone else to make decisions on behalf of those that will not turn out to vote thereby disadvantaging the candidate of their choice.
Rev Kabonde has stressed the need for peace and unity to prevail throughout the electoral process so that people can turn out in large numbers to cast their votes on 20th January.
Meanwhile Reverend Kabonde has revealed that the UCZ will this year be celebrating its Golden Jubilee which she has described as timely considering this will be happening at a time when the country is holding its presidential by-election.
She says the church will celebrate its golden jubilee through prayer and fasting from 16th to 18th January.
Reverend Kabonde says the church will also use the opportunity to intercede for the coming elections.
Reverend Kabonde has since appealed to all Zambians and especially politicians to join in the the prayers which will be held at the Heroes stadium.