Church challenges leaders in the country to declare zero-tolerance to bloodshed, hatred, mistrust and division

THE Church has challenged leaders in the country to declare zero-tolerance to bloodshed, hatred, mistrust and division.
Saint Ignatius Catholic Church Parish priest Charles Chilinda said leaders should embrace and love one another and preach peace, harmony and reconciliation.
Father Chilinda said this at the parish yesterday during the commemoration of the Passion of the Christ Service also known as Good Friday.
It is a procession to mark the crucifixion of Jesus Christ.
In attendance at the service were President Sata, former presidents Kenneth Kaunda and Rupiah Banda, opposition political party leaders Nevers Mumba, Edith Nawakwi and Mike Mulongoti. UPND president Hakainde Hichilema sent his apologies.
Others were cabinet and deputy ministers, members of Parliament, diplomats and senior government officials.
Father Chilinda said he was pleased that President Sata and opposition leaders responded favourably to his invitation to celebrate the mass.
“It is a great day for us, as people who have gathered here today rarely do so. When I spoke to President Sata, he gladly accepted the invitation to join other leaders at this service.
“Who would have ever thought Mr Sata would sit next to Mr Banda? And who would have ever thought RB [Mr Banda] would sit next to Wynter Kabimba [Minister of Justice]?” he asked.
The clergyman said it is not the will of God that Zambians should be divided but rather remain united.
“There is too much violence in our country. Political cadres are fighting each other everyday. These are some of the vices that are part of the wound of Christ,” he said.
Father Chilinda said leaders and Zambians as a whole should love one another regardless of their status in society.
“Today you might be a politician and tomorrow you will be an ordinary citizen. God is the ultimate boss,” Father Chilinda said.

He said the coming together of President Sata and other leaders should mark a new chapter in the history of the country.
“I hope today marks a new beginning for all of our leaders here with us. I hope this is not just a PR [public relations] or show-off by our politicians. Let us engage so that Zambia can once again be known as a beacon of peace, hope and love,” he said.
And giving a sermon, assistant parish priest John Mwelwa said Zambians should unite and thank God for the country’s Golden Jubilee independence celebration.
“50 years is not a joke. Let us love and forgive each other. Let us start afresh as a nation to make this country a better place.
“Let us remain united and celebrate in peace as this gesture will be a great present to our founding father Kaunda, who is celebrating his 90th birthday,” he said.
After the service, President Sata escorted Dr Kaunda to his vehicle and had a brief chat with Mr Banda before leaving the parish.