Zambian bishops urge officials to tackle political, economic reforms
January 24, 2014 - The Catholic bishops of Zambia said the country faces numerous
unresolved political and economic challenges that hinder development and harm the
dignity of people. In a charged pastoral statement issued at a news conference in
Lusaka on Thursday, the bishops expressed concern that progress toward relieving poverty
and improving human life could be reversed if the government fails to change some
of its practices.
Archbishop Ignatius Chama of Kasama, president of the Zambian
bishops' conference, accused the government of intimidating people to prevent them
from participating in governmental affairs. "The political environment in Zambia,
today, is characterized by manipulation, patronage and intimidation of perceived government
opponents," Archbishop Chama told reporters. The prelate said that food distribution
and availability in the small southern African nation was tenuous. He said food security
has been weakened by the late delivery of farming supplies, particularly fertilizer,
for the 2013-14 growing season. (Source: CNS)