Zambian presidential candidates responsible for violence in their campaigns: election monitors

An election monitoring coalition on Saturday blamed some of Zambia's presidential candidates for the violence occurred during their campaigns.

The Christian Churches Monitoring Group, which is monitoring the election, said in a statement that it was a shame and embarrassment for a country that has prided itself as an oasis of peace and has a track record of peaceful transition to witness election campaigns marred by violence.

Violence between supporters of different candidates has characterized the campaigns since last November despite repeated calls for political leaders to curb their proponents from violent actions.

The coalition warned the candidates that violence would only alienate voters from candidates and result in voter apathy on the election day.

The Electoral Commission of Zambia called for a meeting on Tuesday with all the political parties that participated in the election. And they all agreed to address the violence between supporters from different sides.

Zambia is to hold the presidential election on Jan. 20 to elect its sixth leader since it gained independence from Britain in 1964, as the post was left vacant after President Michael Sata passed away on Oct. 28, 2014. Endi