The Christian Churches Monitoring Group (CCMG) has noted with concern the increasing presence of minors and children at political campaign events, including instances where children are positioned on campaign stages alongside political leaders during campaign rallies. CCMG wishes to remind all political parties, candidates, parents, guardians and campaign organisers that the rights and welfare of children are protected under the Children’s Code Act No. 12 of 2022.
Section 3 of the Act provides that “a child’s best interest is the primary consideration in a matter or action concerning the child, whether undertaken by a public or private body.” This means that every decision involving children, including their participation in public political events, must first consider whether such involvement serves the child’s best interests.
Further, Section 5 guarantees every child “the inherent right to life, dignity and respect”, while Section 17 provides that “a child is entitled to protection from maltreatment and any other form of exploitation.” Although political participation is a constitutional right for eligible citizens, children should never be placed in situations where they may be exposed to intimidation, political manipulation, public hostility, violence, or other risks associated with highly charged political activities.
CCMG also draws attention to Section 38 of the Children’s Code Act, which places a legal duty on parents and persons with parental responsibility to protect children from neglect, violence and abuse and to safeguard their welfare and development. Political campaign events can at times become emotionally charged or violent. Subjecting children to such environments, particularly by placing them on campaign platforms or using them as part of political messaging, may compromise their safety, dignity and welfare and may not be consistent with the “best interests of the child” principle established under the law.
CCMG therefore calls upon:
- All political parties and candidates to refrain from using children as participants, symbols or visual props during campaign activities.
- Parents and guardians to avoid exposing children to campaign environments that may place them at risk or compromise their wellbeing.
- The Electoral Commission of Zambia, the Zambia Police Service, child protection authorities and other relevant stakeholders to promote compliance with the Children’s Code Act and ensure that children’s rights are respected throughout the electoral period.
CCMG reiterates that children should be allowed to enjoy their childhood free from political exploitation and that their rights, dignity, safety and development must remain paramount throughout the electoral process.
The protection of children is a collective responsibility and should never be compromised for political advantage.
