Hichilema was allegedly subject to torture and kept in inhumane conditions before even receiving a guilty verdict, the leaders said. They also offered their thoughts and prayers for a number of other political prisoners being held by the government.
They also noted that outrage over the arrest had been expressed in many countries, including the US, Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, and in the EU. They also committed their communities within Zambia to fighting "on the side of good."
"We are fully aware," they stated, "that more often than not, the fight for Justice is not a path filled with many pilgrims, but is a lonely journey by courageous leaders and a small number of followers."
The letter at multiple points quotes John 8:32, "The Truth will set you free." Freedom of the press, according to the letter, is under assault in the country. They noted the closing or "fixing" of various major news outlets in the country, and "maintain that the presence of 80 radio stations, online newspapers and independent television stations in Zambia does not mean press and media freedom."
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They also defended their charge that the arrest shows dictatorial qualities in the government.
"It is not the numbers of the afflicted victims that count. It is the principle," they said.
"The dictum that God knows how to count only up to one when it comes to his children is the truth that makes us realize just how each one of us is important in God's eyes."
At the close of the letter, the Christian leaders' tone became outright mournful.
"Indeed, what has happened to us as a nation?" the bishops lamented. "Where are our values as human beings and as Christians? Is this what it means to be a 'Christian Nation'?"
In concluding, the Christian leaders made a number of demands of the government, including that "we expect H.E. Mr. Edgar C. Lungu, to act as Republican President whose aim is not only to protect the good of the members of his party (the PF), but also and more importantly, be the guardian of ALL ZAMBIANS, regardless of their political affiliation."
"We firmly believe that this nation can overcome all our current political differences through genuine dialogue aimed at true reconciliation and nation building."
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