MMD faction leader Felix Mutati says the just ended by-election for council chairperson in Kafue were peaceful, adding that they set a good example for future elections.

In a statement, Mutati also said the constitution amendment process should include clauses that will prohibit political violence in order to address the issue permanently.

“Today the elections for the mayor of Kafue are taking place and one of the most significant things we have noticed is that the incidents of violence have been almost nil. We must continue to allow our people to make a choice and that choice should not be through intimidation. Kafue shows how various political players can come together and conduct peaceful elections without intimidation,” Mutati said.

“And as we go on with the by-elections in Bahati, I think the example set by Kafue should be extended to Roan and Bahati. We are calling on all political players that Zambia remains peaceful. And we can only demonstrate this peaceful nature if at the political level, we eliminate incidences of violence. Let’s continue to preach peace because only peace can grow this country, only peace can underpin the economy of this country.”

And Mutati said the constitution amendment process should include clauses that will prohibit political violence in order to address the issue permanently.

“And I think as we continue carrying out the constitution reforms, particularly the electoral reforms, we must implant in these reforms, the issues around how violence can be eliminated on permanent basis from political campaigns,” said Mutati said.