By Bennie Mundando
BELEAGUERED Catholic Father Lastone Lupupa has apologized to the Zambians over his sentiments that it is better to rig the forthcoming elections than allowing vindictive elements to win.
Two days ago, Fr. Lupupa shocked the nation when a video of him went viral where he was in church preaching and suggested that it was better to rig the 2021 elections than allowing leaders who were threatening to arrest their opponents once they come into power, to be elected.
Fr. Lupupa received a backlash and wide condemnation from some quarters of society, some of which described his statement as careless while others charged that this was nothing new as he was simply bringing out the political beast in him.
But in a video posted on his Facebook wall minutes ago, Fr. Lupupa has unreservedly apologized to the Zambians for his statement saying he was a very good person who loved peace and that after a discourse with church leaders, it was realized that it was important for him to apologize.
“I want to ask for forgiveness from all Zambians especially those who heard about this issue on social media that I talked about rigging election results. I am asking for forgiveness because as a preacher, these words must not come from my mouth, especially among Catholic believers who I stand in front of to preach about the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
“After having a discussion with the church leaders, I have been given an opportunity to speak to all of you who were affected by this. I am a very good citizen of Zambia. In fact, I am a peace cadre. I love to see peace in this country. I trust that my apology will find space in your hearts. Have mercy on me and forgive me. I am sorry. Please, forgive me. Thank you. Let us continue to remain patriotic and love our great nation Zambia,” Fr. Lupupa said.
Only good leaders come out and ask for forgiveness,I salute you father