EVEN IF GOVERNMENT MOVED THE NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER FROM 18 OCTOBER TO 29 DECEMBER, I WON’T ACCEPT THAT MYSELF, I WILL OBSERVE THE DAY DECLARED BY EDGAR LUNGU INSTEAD, VOWS REVEREND GIVEN KATUTA
Independent Presidential Candidate Rev. Dr. Given Katuta Mwelwa has declared that Christians will proceed with the October 18 National Day of Prayer, Fasting and Reconciliation, insisting that the commemoration belongs to all Zambians and must not be reduced to a political party event.
In a defiant statement, the former Chienge Member of Parliament challenged restrictions affecting access to public gathering places, declaring that the unavailability of stadiums and other venues would not stop believers from gathering in churches, homes and night vigils to pray for the country.
“The government can keep the stadiums. They can keep Heroes Stadium and all public places where we used to gather. But they cannot stop us Christians,” Rev. Mwelwa declared, in remarks that place religious freedom, public assembly and the government’s handling of national commemorations at the centre of debate.
He argued that October 18 was declared by former President Edgar Chagwa Lungu as a national day, not a Patriotic Front event, just as December 29 was declared by former President Frederick Chiluba as the day associated with Zambia’s declaration as a Christian nation.
The statement brings renewed attention to the relationship between the two dates: October 18, dedicated to prayer, fasting and reconciliation, and December 29, associated with commemorating Zambia’s Christian identity.
Rev. Mwelwa maintains that both occasions should remain meaningful opportunities for Christians to come together in worship, reflection and national thanksgiving.