Zambia: Cardinal Mazombwe Stance Praised

9 June 2011

THE Inter-denominational Churches has applauded prelate Medardo Mazombwe for distancing the Catholic Church from priests using the church to advance their partisan politics at the expense of being neutral and cooperating with the Government of the day.

Inter-denominational Churches coordinator Joseph Masuku said in a statement yesterday the churches were elated by Cardinal Mazombwe's statement in which he was urging the citizenry not to base their judgements of the Catholic Church on few of its members who were championing calls for regime change.

"We thank God that we have in our midst church leaders who are honest and humble enough to point out the wrongs and seek love and dialogue where differences occur.

"The statement by Cardinal Mazombwe was frank and timely at a time some people are being driven to conclude that the Catholic Church has branched into partisan politics as demonstrated by a number of its bishops and priests calling for change of Government," he said.

Bishop Masuku said the clarification and call for dialogue between the Church and Government to remove any misgivings and perceived misunderstandings were acts of profound belief in the teachings of Christ as it was the work of the Church to pray for and work with the Government of the day.

He said with the principle of working with and supporting the Government of the day, the Inter-denominational Churches would support President Rupiah Banda and his administration.

The Inter-denominational Churches would soon embark on a country-wide drive to explain why President Banda's re-election would ensure continued development and peace in the nation.

Bishop Masuku implored everyone to support Mr Banda's Government because it was clearly promoting love, unity, peace and development.

He said the Church was pleased with the development taking place, besides the fight against homosexuality, violence and tribalism.

And a Catholic priest in Kalulushi has commended both the Church and the Government for embracing reconciliation.

Father Remmy Lesa from Kalulushi University said in an interview yesterday that dialogue was necessary in any situation and the path taken to reconcile was the right one as it would foster development.

"Dialogue and reconciliation is the most cardinal thing to do and the path the Church and Government have taken is good because what we all need is to support each other to ensure development," he said.

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