A Call from Fair Vote Zambia Faith Voices: Standing Against Police Corruption

A Call from Fair Vote Zambia Faith Voices: Standing Against Police Corruption

As faith leaders united under Fair Vote Zambia Faith Voices—a coalition of churches and religious communities committed to justice, peace, and free and fair democratic processes in our beloved nation—we raise our voices once again to condemn the scourge of police corruption that undermines the very foundations of our society.

We draw our inspiration from the Scriptures, which remind us in Proverbs 29:4: "By justice a king gives a country stability, but those who are greedy for bribes tear it down." Corruption in any form, especially within institutions meant to protect and serve, tears at the fabric of our Zambian community. It erodes trust, breeds fear, and denies citizens the dignity and rights God has bestowed upon each one of us.

Consider a powerful illustration that has circulated widely, highlighting the dangers of unchecked power and abuse within law enforcement. In a compelling video story titled *"Police Officer Slaps a Girl — Seconds Later, Everything Changes"* (available here:

https://youtu.be/w1-AOP_Xy3g?si=bckdy7LlRbNHmAQs)

we see a fictional yet profoundly instructive tale of a corrupt police sergeant who routinely stops innocent drivers, fabricates offenses, demands bribes, and even resorts to physical intimidation and extortion. He believes his uniform grants him impunity to harass the vulnerable, taking money through threats and false accusations. But when his actions target someone with hidden authority—a high-ranking officer in disguise—the truth is exposed. Evidence comes to light, investigations follow, and the corrupt officer faces arrest and justice.

Though this story is set abroad and presented as fiction for awareness, its message resonates deeply with the realities many Zambians face daily. It serves as a stark warning: corruption may seem to thrive in the shadows, but righteousness and accountability will ultimately prevail. When those in power abuse their positions for personal gain—demanding bribes at roadblocks, fabricating charges, or using force to silence the innocent—they not only violate the law but betray the sacred trust placed in them by the people and by God.

In Zambia, we have seen too many reports and indices, such as the recent Zambia Bribe Payers Index, placing the police service at the forefront of institutions where bribes are solicited. This is unacceptable. Our police are called to be guardians of peace, not perpetrators of fear. As faith voices, we condemn these acts unequivocally. We call on all officers of integrity—and we know there are many, like the courageous policewoman recently honored for rejecting a massive bribe—to stand firm against corruption within their ranks.

We urge the government, the Police Service Commission, and anti-corruption bodies to act decisively: investigate complaints thoroughly, discipline the guilty, and reform systems that enable abuse. We pray for a Zambia where justice flows like a river (Amos 5:24), where every citizen can travel our roads, engage in civic life, and participate in elections without fear of harassment or extortion.

To our fellow Zambians: Do not be silent. Report corruption. Vote with conscience for leaders who uphold integrity. And remember, as people of faith, we are called to be salt and light, exposing darkness and building a nation of true freedom and fairness.

Fair Vote Zambia Faith Voices stands with you in this pursuit of justice. Let us pray and work together for a corrupt-free Zambia.

In the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,  

Fair Vote Zambia Faith Voices