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)