10/08/2026
STATEMENT BY THE NATIONAL ARTS COUNCIL OF ZAMBIA ON ELECTORAL VIOLENCE
The National Arts Council of Zambia is deeply concerned by the recent increase in incidents of electoral violence as the country approaches the General Election scheduled for 13th August 2026.
Zambia has long been recognised as a peaceful nation. Elections should provide citizens with an opportunity to exercise their democratic rights freely and peacefully, not become a source of fear, intimidation or division.
The Council unequivocally condemns all acts of political and electoral violence, regardless of the perpetrators or their political affiliation. We are particularly concerned by acts of violence directed at artists. Artists must be free to practise their craft, express themselves and participate in national affairs without fear of attack.
Artists possess a unique ability to reach across political, ethnic and social divides. Their voices, talents and platforms should be used to unite the nation, encourage tolerance and promote Zambia’s long-standing culture of peace. We therefore call upon artists to reject messages that incite violence, hatred or division and instead use their influence to encourage peaceful participation, mutual respect and national unity.
We further urge political parties, candidates, supporters and all electoral stakeholders to exercise restraint and ensure the safety of artists and all citizens. Political differences must never be used to justify violence.
As we approach 13th August, let us remember that elections will pass, but Zambia will remain. We must protect the peace, unity and shared identity that have held our nation together.
Ms Maureen Lilanda
BOARD CHAIRPERSON
NATIONAL ARTS COUNCIL OF ZAMBIASTATEMENT BY THE NATIONAL ARTS COUNCIL OF ZAMBIA ON ELECTORAL VIOLENCE
The National Arts Council of Zambia is deeply concerned by the recent increase in incidents of electoral violence as the country approaches the General Election scheduled for 13th August 2026.
Zambia has long been recognised as a peaceful nation. Elections should provide citizens with an opportunity to exercise their democratic rights freely and peacefully, not become a source of fear, intimidation or division.
The Council unequivocally condemns all acts of political and electoral violence, regardless of the perpetrators or their political affiliation. We are particularly concerned by acts of violence directed at artists. Artists must be free to practise their craft, express themselves and participate in national affairs without fear of attack.
Artists possess a unique ability to reach across political, ethnic and social divides. Their voices, talents and platforms should be used to unite the nation, encourage tolerance and promote Zambia’s long-standing culture of peace. We therefore call upon artists to reject messages that incite violence, hatred or division and instead use their influence to encourage peaceful participation, mutual respect and national unity.
We further urge political parties, candidates, supporters and all electoral stakeholders to exercise restraint and ensure the safety of artists and all citizens. Political differences must never be used to justify violence.
As we approach 13th August, let us remember that elections will pass, but Zambia will remain. We must protect the peace, unity and shared identity that have held our nation together.
Ms Maureen Lilanda
BOARD CHAIRPERSON
NATIONAL ARTS COUNCIL OF ZAMBIA