Zimbabwe churches praised for launching campaign against political violence

Heal Zimbabwe has commended the church for launching an election campaign dubbed "The Christian Vote 2018" on 27 June 2017 in Harare.

The campaign is against political candidates who promote violence and abuse political power and influence to perpetrate violence.

Heal Zimbabwe has said it notes that the campaign is a positive step as it adds a voice on the need for violence free elections.

"The launch saw several church denominations such as Catholic Commission for Justice and Peace (CCJP), Prayer Network of Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe Pastors' Fellowship, Christian Leaders Forum, Ecumenical Church Leaders' Forum, Zimbabwe Christian Alliance and Zimbabwe Devine Destiny (ZDD) come together to pledge and commit to campaign for peaceful 2018 elections," said the trust.

"In his solidarity speech, Heal Zimbabwe Programmes Manager, Cleto Manjova commended the move by the churches to call for peace ahead of the 2018 elections. He said "...The move by the church to launch a peace campaign against violent elections is commendable and as Heal Zimbabwe, we will partner the church in initiating campaigns for peaceful elections ahead of the 2018 elections..".

Heal Zimbabwe said it appreciates the fact that the church has over the years been able to stand resolute and in unity with civil society organizations and has encouraged peace among citizens.

"This critical role by the church has strengthened local credibility and trust in the Church as a key stakeholder in healing and reconciliation processes. It is upon such trust and credibility that the Church, if recognized and given opportunity, could become key in the crucial domains of peace building and reconciliation efforts," said the trust.